Rubio meets Netanyahu in Jerusalem to advance Gaza ceasefire implementation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Thursday to advance the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The high-level discussion focused on maintaining the fragile truce that took effect on October 10 and progressing toward subsequent phases of the US-mediated peace plan.

Strengthening US-Israel Coordination

During a joint press conference, Netanyahu characterized the meeting as part of a "circle of trust and partnership" with Washington, acknowledging ongoing security challenges while expressing confidence in bilateral cooperation. "We still have security challenges, but I think that we can work together, and by working together, both address the challenges and seize the opportunities," the Israeli leader stated.

US Commitment to Peace Process

Secretary Rubio emphasized the Trump administration's commitment to building on recent progress, stating the US felt "very positive and confident" about ongoing efforts. He noted that his visit, along with earlier trips by Vice President JD Vance and envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, demonstrated that Gaza ceasefire implementation represents "a top priority" for President Trump's administration.

Ceasefire Agreement Details

The State Department confirmed Rubio's mission aims to "support the successful implementation of President Trump's comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza." The agreement's initial phase includes hostage-prisoner exchanges and outlines Gaza's reconstruction under a new governing structure that excludes Hamas. The ceasefire follows extensive hostilities that Gaza health authorities report resulted in over 68,200 fatalities since October 2023.