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Rubio Arrives in Israel as Gaza City Assault Escalates and Doha Strike Roils Diplomacy

Rubio aims to clarify Israel’s plan for Gaza following the Qatar attack.

Overview

  • The U.S. secretary of state began a two-day visit and will press Israeli leaders on the war’s next steps and how the Doha operation affected truce and hostage talks.
  • Israeli forces intensified strikes in Gaza City, flattening multiple high‑rises including the Kauther tower after evacuation orders, with local hospitals reporting at least 13 Palestinians killed Sunday.
  • Israel acknowledged responsibility for the Doha strike that targeted Hamas figures; Qatar reported a security officer killed and several injured, and Hamas said six people, including Khalil al‑Hayya’s son, were among the dead.
  • Netanyahu said Hamas leaders based in Qatar remain alive and called for their elimination, arguing they block ceasefire efforts and the release of captives.
  • Roughly 48 hostages remain in Gaza, about 20 believed alive, as regional and international fallout grows with an ArabIslamic summit set in Doha and a UN vote backing renewed two‑state diplomacy.