U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that shared intelligence helped prevent a potential Hamas attack, while discussing plans for an international stabilization force in Gaza.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed on Saturday that intelligence sharing among the U.S., Israel, and other mediators played a crucial role in averting a possible Hamas attack last weekend. Speaking to reporters while traveling from Israel to Qatar, Rubio stated, “We put out a message through the State Department, sent it to our mediators as well, about an impending attack, and it didn’t happen. So that’s the goal here, is ultimately to identify a threat before it happens.”
This announcement follows a week after the State Department reported “credible reports” indicating that Hamas was planning an attack on Palestinian civilians, which would violate the terms of the recent peace agreement.
Rubio emphasized the importance of collaboration with various nations, mentioning that the U.S. has engaged in discussions with countries such as Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, all of whom have expressed interest in contributing to an international stabilization force in the region. He also noted that Indonesia and Azerbaijan are among those interested in participating.
However, Rubio pointed out that many of these countries would require a United Nations resolution to support the establishment of such a force. This highlights the complexities involved in international cooperation and the necessity of formal backing for military or peacekeeping initiatives.
In addition to his diplomatic efforts, Rubio met with President Donald Trump in Qatar ahead of the president’s upcoming tour of Asia. The discussions included strategies to solidify the ceasefire agreement that was implemented earlier this month.
Vice President JD Vance was also present in Israel earlier this week, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump adviser Jared Kushner, who is also the president’s son-in-law. Their visit aimed to reinforce the ceasefire deal and ensure its longevity.
Next week, Rubio announced that General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is expected to travel to Israel as part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the region.
During his meeting with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Trump expressed gratitude for Qatar’s role in facilitating the peace deal. “This should be an enduring peace,” he remarked to reporters, underscoring the administration’s commitment to long-term stability in the region.
Rubio’s remarks and the ongoing diplomatic efforts reflect a proactive approach by the U.S. to address security concerns in Gaza and foster international cooperation aimed at maintaining peace.
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