Secretary of State Marco Rubio had a phone conversation with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu on Sunday, aimed at reinforcing the United States’ strong backing of Israel.
In a statement summarizing the call, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce explained that the conversation focused on Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza, as well as efforts to secure the release of hostages. “The Secretary discussed Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, and efforts to help release the hostages and bring them home,” Bruce said.
Bruce also mentioned that Rubio conveyed the Administration’s resolve to ensure the safe passage in the Red Sea by carrying out military actions against the Iranian-backed Houthis. “The Secretary also conveyed the Administration’s determination to restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea through military operations against the Iranian-backed Houthis,” she stated.
Netanyahu’s office issued a statement reflecting on the discussion, noting that Netanyahu and Rubio addressed regional issues, including the release of hostages and the renewed fighting in Gaza. “Netanyahu and Rubio discussed regional developments, including releasing the hostages and the resumption of fighting in the Gaza Strip,” said Netanyahu’s office.
The Prime Minister’s Office also emphasized Rubio’s message of solid support for Israel. “US Secretary of State Rubio expressed the US’s unwavering support for Israel and its policy,” the statement read.
This exchange came after Israel carried out unexpected strikes against Gaza-based terrorist targets, which followed Hamas’ refusal to release additional hostages and its rejection of US envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposal.
On Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked that President Donald Trump “fully supports” Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Mike Waltz, Trump’s National Security Advisor, echoed this sentiment, voicing his approval of Israel’s renewed military offensive against Hamas.
In a post on X, Waltz underscored Hamas’ responsibility for the escalation in violence, pointing out that the group’s refusal to release all hostages directly led to the resumed fighting. “Israel has every right to defend its people from Hamas terrorists. The ceasefire would have been extended if Hamas released all remaining hostages. Instead, they chose war,” Waltz stated.
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