U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Israel on Sunday for a high-stakes diplomatic visit aimed at reviving stalled ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. His trip comes just days after an Israeli airstrike targeted Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar—an unprecedented move that drew international criticism and complicated mediation efforts.

Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Western Wall, reaffirming the strength of the U.S.–Israel alliance. “The President wants this conflict to end. He wants all the hostages out, living and deceased,” Rubio told reporters before departing for the region.

The visit follows President Donald Trump’s public rebuke of Israel’s strike in Qatar, which he said jeopardized hostage negotiations and undermined Qatar’s role as a mediator. Despite the tension, Rubio emphasized that the U.S. remains committed to supporting Israel while urging restraint and renewed dialogue.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces have intensified operations in northern Gaza, leveling high-rise buildings and issuing evacuation orders. Civilian casualties continue to mount, with at least 12 Palestinians killed on Sunday alone.

Rubio’s meetings with Netanyahu and other senior officials are expected to focus on:

- Restoring momentum for ceasefire talks

- Securing the release of remaining hostages

- Addressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza

- Navigating fallout from the Qatar strike

Arab and Muslim leaders are also convening in Doha to express solidarity with Qatar and discuss a unified response to Israel’s actions.
Rubio is scheduled to depart Israel on Tuesday, concluding a visit that underscores both the urgency and complexity of diplomacy in the region.