US promises ‘unwavering support’ to Israel in Gaza goals

JERUSALEM: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio vowed Monday that Washington would provide “unwavering support” to Israel in achieving its goals in Gaza as he called for the eradication of Hamas.

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“The people of Gaza deserve a better future, but that better future cannot begin until Hamas is eliminated,” Rubio said at a joint news conference in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“You can count on our unwavering support and commitment to see come to fruition.”

OPPOSITION TO TWO-STATE SOLUTION

He also charged that Hamas was emboldened by moves by Britain, France and other US allies to recognise a Palestinian state.

“They’re largely symbolic — they have really no impact whatsoever about bringing us any closer to a Palestinian state. The only impact they actually have is it makes Hamas feel more emboldened,” Rubio said.

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At the same time, he also promised Israel to maintain “maximum pressure” on Iran to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon.

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“The president continues with a campaign of maximum pressure,” Rubio told reporters, there will “continue to be maximum economic pressure on Iran until they change course.”

CLEAR MESSAGE

Netanyahu said Rubio’s visit was a “clear message” the United States stood with Israel and praised President Donald Trump for his backing, calling him the “greatest friend that Israel has ever had.”

The visit and promised “unwavering support” came as Qatar is hosting the Arab-Islamic summit.

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Rubio had said he would discuss with Netanyahu Israeli plans to seize Gaza City, the territory’s largest urban center, as well as the government’s talk of annexing parts of the occupied West Bank in hopes of precluding a Palestinian state.