Secretary Rubio Visits Israel Amid Intensified Gaza Strikes, Diplomatic Efforts Falter

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a two-day visit to Israel on Sunday, arriving amidst heightened tensions following a recent Israeli strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar. The trip aimed to gain clarity from Israeli officials on their future strategy in Gaza, as the region grapples with intensified Israeli military operations and stalling peace negotiations.

During his visit, Secretary Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, touring significant sites including the Western Wall. Netanyahu underscored the enduring strength of the U.S.-Israeli alliance. The visit signals continued U.S. support for Israel, even as the international community prepares for a contentious United Nations debate next week on Palestinian statehood, a move strongly opposed by Netanyahu.

The diplomatic efforts unfold as the conflict in Gaza escalates. On Sunday, Israeli forces intensified attacks in northern Gaza, flattening multiple high-rise buildings and reportedly killing at least 13 Palestinians. Local hospitals reported strikes targeting a vehicle near Shifa hospital, a roundabout in Gaza City, and a tent in Deir al-Balah, resulting in multiple civilian casualties. Israel maintains its operations target Hamas militant infrastructure, which it claims is embedded within civilian areas.

The recent Israeli operation in Doha, which killed at least six, has reportedly derailed attempts to broker an Israel-Hamas ceasefire and secure the release of remaining hostages ahead of the upcoming U.N. General Assembly session. President Donald Trump had reportedly expressed anger over not being pre-notified of the Qatar strike.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. The territory’s health ministry reported two more deaths from malnutrition and starvation on Sunday, bringing the total to 277 adults since late June and 145 children since October 2023. Despite some aid entering Gaza, humanitarian workers stress it remains vastly insufficient for the population’s dire needs. The ongoing conflict, which began on Oct. 7, 2023, has resulted in over 64,871 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.