Rubio arrives in Israel as Israeli strikes intensify in northern Gaza

"Rubio said ahead of the trip that he will be seeking answers from Israeli officials about how they see the way forward in Gaza following Israel's attack on Hamas operatives in Qatar last week that upended efforts to broker an end to the conflict. His two-day visit is also a show of support for the increasingly isolated Israel as the United Nations holds what is expected to be a contentious debate on commitment to the creation of a Palestinian state."

"Rubio's visit went ahead despite President Donald Trump's anger at Netanyahu over the Israeli strike against Hamas leaders in Doha, which he said the United States was not notified of beforehand. On Friday, Rubio and Trump met with Qatar's prime minister to discuss the fallout from the Israeli operation. The dual, back-to-back meetings with Israel and Qatar illustrate how Trump administration is trying to balance relations between key Middle East allies despite the attack's widespread international condemnation."

"On Sunday, at least 13 Palestinians were killed and dozens were wounded in multiple Israeli strikes across Gaza, according to local hospitals. Local hospitals said Israeli strikes targeted a vehicle near Shifa hospital and a roundabout in Gaza City, and a tent in the city of Deir al-Balah that killed at least six members of the same family. Two parents, their three children and the children's aunt were killed in that strike, according to the Al-Aqsa hospital."

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Israel as Israeli forces intensified attacks against northern Gaza, flattening another high-rise and killing at least 12 Palestinians. Rubio said he will seek answers from Israeli officials about plans for Gaza following an Israeli strike on Hamas operatives in Qatar that upended ceasefire and hostage-release efforts. His two-day visit signaled support for increasingly isolated Israel as the United Nations prepares a contentious debate on recognition of a Palestinian state, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes. The Doha strike angered President Donald Trump, prompting U.S. meetings with Qatar and efforts to balance relations. Multiple strikes killed at least 13 Palestinians and wounded dozens, including a strike that killed six members of one family near Deir al-Balah.

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