Rubio and Netanyahu Send Sharp Messages Ahead of Doha Summit

Hours before the Doha Summit convenes, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent direct messages to the Gulf countries, mixing warnings with affirmations of the strength of the U.S.-Israeli alliance.

During a joint press conference, Rubio emphasized that “the friendship between the United States and Israel goes beyond the peace process to include economy and technology,” affirming that Hamas is “a terrorist organization that must relinquish its weapons,” and that “the people of Gaza deserve a better future that can only be achieved by eliminating Hamas.” He also warned about the dangers of Iran possessing long-range missiles or acquiring nuclear weapons, stressing that Washington “will continue to exert pressure and expand sanctions” on Tehran.

Rubio pointed out that current focus is on Qatar’s potential role in brokering a deal concerning Gaza, while reiterating Washington’s full commitment to regional security.

Netanyahu, meanwhile, stated that “Israel has no better ally than the United States,” praising Washington’s decision to strike Iranian facilities as “a wise decision.” He added that the strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar “was an independent Israeli decision for which Tel Aviv takes full responsibility.”

Netanyahu affirmed his government’s “commitment to bringing hostages back from Gaza,” and said “defeating Hamas is inevitable,” indirectly criticizing governments he described as “weak” for succumbing to internal pressures. President Donald Trump, calling him “Israel’s greatest friend.”

These statements come as attention focuses on the Doha Summit, amid anticipation of the Gulf countries’ positions regarding the rapidly evolving Palestinian and Iranian issues.