Overview

• Weapons and political power held by Hamas must be eliminated if any ceasefire or diplomatic solution in Gaza is to endure, Rubio warned, citing shared backing from the Arab League
• He identified three interconnected crises in Gaza’s conflict: a severe humanitarian emergency, 20 hostages held by Hamas and the persistent threat posed by the militant group
• Describing captives confined in underground tunnels as suffering “horrifying conditions,” Rubio stressed the urgency of securing the release of all 20 hostages
• He said the State Department is developing delivery channels that feed civilians directly while preventing Hamas from diverting aid for its own use
• Rubio confirmed he speaks almost daily with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Israeli officials and affirmed that Israel retains sole authority over its security decisions