Strikes in Qatar Will Not Change Our Relations with Israel Says Rubio

The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is heading to Israel, where he will hold a series of meetings with Israeli leaders today. This marks his second visit since taking on the role of head of U.S. diplomacy.

Before his departure, Rubio stated that disagreements over the strikes in Qatar would not alter bilateral relations, and the U.S. would continue to support Israel. “This will not change the nature of our relationship with Israel, but we will discuss what consequences the strikes in Qatar will have,” explained the Secretary of State.

“My focus will be on ensuring the return of hostages, finding ways to deliver humanitarian aid to civilian populations, and overcoming the threats posed by Hamas. Hamas cannot continue to exist if the goal is peace in the region,” Rubio added.

It is notable that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labeled the criticism directed at Israel by numerous countries following the strikes in Qatar as 'shameful.'