US Secretary Rubio visits Israel amid rising Doha Strike tensions

Qatar - قطر , / Sunday, September 14th, 2025

rki.news
Source- Anadolu Agency
ANKARA — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Israel on Sunday for an official visit, just days after an Israeli missile strike in Doha killed several Hamas leaders, according to i24 News.
During his visit, Rubio is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ahead of the trip, he posted on X: “On my way to Jerusalem. My focus will be on securing the return of hostages, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians, and addressing the threat posed by Hamas.”
The Israeli strike on Tuesday targeted a residential compound in Qatar’s capital that was sheltering Hamas leaders. Five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer were reported killed. The attack has drawn criticism due to Qatar’s role, alongside Egypt and the U.S., as a mediator in indirect talks aimed at brokering a ceasefire in Gaza and arranging a prisoner-hostage exchange.
Israel’s war on Gaza, launched after the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, has killed more than 64,000 Palestinians and left the enclave in ruins. According to Israeli estimates, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. In contrast, Palestinian groups highlight that more than 10,000 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli prisons, where detainees face harsh conditions including torture, medical neglect, and starvation.
Rubio’s visit comes at a delicate moment, with Washington balancing its support for Israel against growing regional anger over the attack in Doha.