US Secretary of State Rubio Talks Iran and Hostages with Netanyahu
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Synopsis
On January 23, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed US support for Israel during a call with Prime Minister Netanyahu. They discussed the ongoing situation in Gaza, Iranian threats, and efforts to secure the release of Israeli hostages.
Key Takeaways
- Rubio emphasized US support for Israel.
- Discussion included Iran and Gaza hostages.
- Recent violence escalated from October 2023 Hamas attacks.
- Ceasefire led to the release of some hostages.
- Humanitarian crisis in Gaza criticized by rights groups.
Washington, Jan 23 (NationPress) Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the United States' commitment to Israel during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, emphasizing Washington's backing for its ally. They also addressed issues regarding Iran and the Israeli hostages in Gaza, as reported by the State Department.
This marked Rubio's inaugural communication with Israel since the inauguration of Republican President Donald Trump on Monday.
Both Trump and his predecessor, former President Joe Biden, have consistently shown support for Israel during its conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
Rubio asserted that "ensuring the United States' unwavering support for Israel is a principal focus for Trump," as indicated by a statement from the State Department.
He assured Netanyahu that Washington would persist in its efforts to work "diligently" towards the liberation of the remaining hostages in Gaza, according to the State Department.
The recent violence in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an assault on Israel, resulting in 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of approximately 250 hostages, as per Israeli statistics.
Israel's retaliatory military campaign against Gaza has resulted in over 47,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and has led to allegations of genocide and war crimes, which Israel refutes. The military actions have displaced almost the entire population of Gaza and triggered a severe hunger crisis.
A ceasefire commenced on Sunday, facilitating the release of some Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinian detainees held by Israel.
Human rights organizations have condemned the escalating humanitarian catastrophe stemming from Israel's military operations.
The Washington administration has upheld its support, stating it aids its ally in countering Iran-backed militant factions, which include Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthi rebels in Yemen.
This conversation took place as Rubio commenced his second day in office, having been sworn in on Tuesday.
"The Secretary congratulated the Prime Minister on Israel's achievements against Hamas and Hezbollah while committing to work relentlessly to secure the freedom of all remaining hostages in Gaza," stated State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
This dialogue coincides with the announcement from US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, who revealed plans to visit Gaza amid the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Netanyahu has also sought the Trump administration's approval for a strategy to maintain five Israeli military outposts in southern Lebanon, according to media sources.
Rubio and Netanyahu discussed "tackling the threats posed by Iran and exploring potential avenues for peace".
