Secretary Marco Rubio Joins Netanyahu For PRESS Conference In Israel Today

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered joint statements to the press in Jerusalem on September 15, 2025. Their joint press availability followed a meeting to discuss bilateral relations and key issues in the Middle East.

Tensions over Qatar strike
The meeting came a week after an Israeli airstrike in Qatar, a key U.S. ally, targeted Hamas negotiators. This attack reportedly killed six people and led to outrage in the Arab world, prompting President Donald Trump to distance the U.S. from the action.

During the press conference, the leaders addressed the fallout:
Netanyahu's stance: The Prime Minister took "full responsibility" for the strike, stating it was Israel's "wholly independent decision". He emphasized that a message was sent to terrorists: "You can run, but you can't hide," and did not rule out further strikes against Hamas leaders wherever they may be.

Rubio's response: The Secretary of State downplayed U.S. tensions with Israel, stating the U.S. goal is to see all hostages released and Hamas eliminated as a threat. He noted that Washington maintains "strong relationships" with its Gulf allies and that their ongoing conversations with Israel focus on achieving peace and prosperity in Gaza.

Broader discussions
Beyond the Qatar strike, the talks covered broader issues related to the ongoing war in Gaza and regional stability.
Eliminating Hamas: Rubio reiterated the U.S. position on Hamas, emphasizing that the militant group must "cease to exist".
Rebuilding Gaza: Rubio stated that the U.S. wants to be helpful in rebuilding Gaza for a future that is "peaceful and prosperous".
Regional relations: Netanyahu highlighted the strong alliance between the two countries, while acknowledging the Abraham Accords and the relationships with other nations in the region.
Following the joint press conference, Rubio also met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. He was later scheduled to travel to Qatar.

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Secretary Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deliver joint statements to the press
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JERUSALEM, ISRAEL
09.15.2025

Secretary of State Marco A. Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deliver joint statements to the press in Jerusalem, Israel.

Film Credits: Video by Mark CHURMS
U.S. Department of State