Marco Rubio Supports Israel's War Objectives in Gaza, Advocates for Hamas Eradication

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed full support for Israel's objectives in the Gaza conflict. He stated that Hamas "must be eradicated," casting doubt on the fragile ceasefire as discussions on its next phase are yet to commence. Rubio's remarks came during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking the start of a regional tour.

Netanyahu has shown approval for US President Donald Trump's plan to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza and redevelop the area under US control. He mentioned having a "common strategy" with Trump for Gaza. Netanyahu warned that if Hamas does not release hostages taken during their attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, "the gates of hell would be open."

Hostage Negotiations and Ceasefire Developments

The initial phase of the ceasefire is nearing its end, with the second phase still pending negotiation. This phase involves Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a lasting truce, and Israeli troop withdrawal. Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, assured Fox News that "phase two is absolutely going to begin." He had productive discussions with Netanyahu and officials from Egypt and Qatar about continuing talks.

Witkoff also mentioned that among the hostages to be released are 19 Israeli soldiers, all believed to be alive. Netanyahu's office announced that Israel's security Cabinet would convene to discuss the second phase, and negotiators were instructed to head to Cairo for further talks.

Regional Reactions and Military Actions

Rubio plans to visit key regional players like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported an airstrike in southern Gaza targeting individuals near its forces. The Hamas-run Interior Ministry claimed three police officers were killed while securing aid truck entry near Rafah on the Egyptian border.

Resuming hostilities could jeopardise remaining hostages. Netanyahu has indicated readiness to continue fighting after the current ceasefire phase, though this might endanger hostages' lives. He offered Hamas a chance to surrender and exile its leaders, but Hamas rejected this, insisting on Palestinian governance.

Arab Leaders' Dilemma

For Arab leaders, facilitating mass expulsion of Palestinians or fighting militants for Israel are undesirable scenarios. Egypt plans an Arab summit on February 27 to propose rebuilding Gaza without displacing its population. Human rights groups argue that expelling Palestinians would likely breach international law.

Egypt warned that a mass influx of Palestinians could undermine its peace treaty with Israel, crucial for US influence in the region. Arab nations have conditioned postwar support for Gaza on returning to Palestinian governance with a statehood path in Gaza, West Bank, and east Jerusalem.

US-Israel Relations and Regional Diplomacy

The UAE and Saudi Arabia oppose mass Palestinian displacement and are vital for any regional response. The UAE led the 2020 Abraham Accords normalising relations between four Arab states and Israel during Trump's term. Trump aims to expand these accords to include Saudi Arabia by offering closer US defence ties.

Rubio will not visit Egypt or Jordan, which have refused Palestinian refugee influxes despite being close US allies at peace with Israel. Trump suggested cutting US aid if they don't comply, which could harm their economies. Rubio is also skipping Qatar on his tour.

The ongoing conflict marks 500 days this week. As negotiations continue, regional dynamics remain tense with various stakeholders balancing complex political interests.