Netanyahu praises Trump's 'bold vision' for Gaza at Rubio meeting

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he is working in "full cooperation" with the US on a unified strategy for Gaza, following discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Netanyahu commended US President Donald Trump's "bold vision" for Gaza's future and mentioned that he and Rubio had explored ways to make that vision a reality.

Trump's controversial proposal to have the US take control of Gaza and resettle its population has been rejected by Palestinians and Arab nations. Rubio acknowledged that the plan may have "shocked and surprised" some, but praised Trump's courage in offering an alternative to the "outdated ideas" of the past.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is on his first Middle East tour as the country’s top diplomat, with plans to meet Russian officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. Following his talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Rubio and Netanyahu shared areas of common ground, including efforts to dismantle Hamas's military and governing capabilities, prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and address developments in a post-Assad Syria.

Netanyahu also condemned the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing it of "lawfare" and falsely accusing Israel. He thanked the US administration for imposing sanctions on the ICC, which last year issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza, claims Israel denies. Netanyahu reiterated the US-Israel agreement on Gaza, stressing that "the gates of hell" would open if all Israeli hostages were not freed.

Rubio echoed this, stating that "Hamas cannot continue as a military or government force," and that peace is impossible as long as it remains a threat through violence. Rubio's visit follows the arrival of a shipment of American-made MK-84 bombs to Israel, which came after President Trump reversed a block on their export imposed by his predecessor, Joe Biden. These powerful bombs are a significant asset for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), further solidifying the strong US-Israel alliance.

The fragile ceasefire in Gaza has faced growing tensions, particularly over a planned hostage release that was nearly canceled but eventually went ahead on Saturday.