The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, expressed his full support for Israel's military objectives in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing that Hamas "must be eradicated," which casts doubt on the fragile ceasefire in place. Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem at the start of his regional tour, facing potential challenges from Arab leaders over the proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza and rebuild the region under U.S. control.
According to Rubio, "as long as Hamas is a force that can govern, manage, or threaten with violence, peace will be impossible," advocating for its eradication. These statements could complicate negotiations with Hamas, despite its losses in the conflict. Rubio plans to visit key regional players such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
The Israeli Army reported an airstrike against individuals approaching its forces in southern Gaza. For Arab leaders, supporting the mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza or fighting against Palestinian militants in favor of Israel could bring unfavorable consequences. Egypt is working on a counterproposal that would allow rebuilding Gaza without displacing its population, insisting on the Palestinian government.
In this context, Rubio emphasized the importance of an acceptable post-war proposal for Israel, pressing Arab states to present it. While he suggested that these countries could contribute troops to confront Hamas, he stressed the need to demilitarize the group. Hamas, for its part, has threatened to delay the release of hostages.
Tensions persist due to the complexity of negotiations and divergent positions. The resumption of conflict could endanger hostages and would not guarantee the elimination of Hamas. Rubio will meet with key Arab leaders to address this situation while the United States sends military support to Israel.
