Rubio and Netanyahu: Eradication of Hamas Essential for Peace and Security
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met to address the recent hostage releases by Hamas and reiterated the necessity of eradicating the group for peace in the region. They also highlighted concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stressing the importance of international cooperation in ensuring regional security. This meeting coincides with the 500th day since the October 7th attacks, reflecting ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. This meeting occurred shortly after Hamas released three hostages to their families on Saturday, marking 500 days since the October 7th, 2023 attacks. Following their discussion, both leaders reached a consensus that Hamas must be dismantled entirely, as its existence poses a significant barrier to peace in the region.
Marco Rubio emphasized, “Hamas cannot continue as a military or government force. As long as it exists, peace becomes impossible. They must be eradicated.” Netanyahu expressed support for President Trump’s initiative to enable Gazans to evacuate the perilous conditions before rebuilding the region under U.S. leadership.
Netanyahu asserted that Hamas obstructs efforts for civilians to leave Gaza, stating, “Everybody says this is the largest open-air prison in the world. Not because of us. We tried to get the population to leave… Hamas prevents them from leaving.” Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff recently observed the devastation in Gaza, mentioning the perilous conditions, including 30,000 unexploded shells and demolished buildings.
Both Netanyahu and Rubio voiced strong opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, with Netanyahu declaring, “Israel and America stand shoulder to shoulder in countering the threat of Iran.” Witkoff added that such development would instigate a regional arms race, which must be avoided. Rubio also reiterated, “Behind everything that threatens peace… is Iran. The people of Iran are victims of that regime.”
On Saturday, Hamas released three hostages: an American-Israeli, a Russian-Israeli, and an Argentinian-Israeli, who endured a demeaning process before reuniting with loved ones after 498 days. President Trump noted their relatively good condition compared to prior hostages, expressing confidence in Israel’s handling of remaining hostage negotiations. He stated, “I told Bibi, ‘You do whatever you want.'”
Netanyahu indicated that cooperation with the Trump administration is ongoing to secure further hostage releases, albeit some strategies remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, Jonathan Dekel-Chen, father of the freed American-Israeli, acknowledged the White House’s commitment to securing hostages and expressed hope for families awaiting their loved ones.
Negotiating teams are now initiating phase two of the ceasefire discussions, focusing on further hostage releases and a potential end to the conflict. Yet, Witkoff articulated the challenge of aligning both parties’ contradictory demands.
Moreover, on this significant 500th day, The Jerusalem Post commemorated the occasion with poignant headlines, including the names of hostages captured by Hamas. The collective sentiment in Israel remains one of hope for the safe return of all hostages.
The meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted their mutual determination to eradicate Hamas as a governing force in Gaza, as well as the imminent threat posed by Iran’s potential nuclear capabilities. The recent release of hostages renews focus on hostage negotiations and the ongoing efforts to bring stability to the region. Israel’s commitment to securing the safe return of all hostages persists amid challenging dynamics with Hamas.
Original Source: cbn.com
