Rubio Backs Israeli Return to Fighting, Warns Against Hamas Rearming

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Israel cannot allow Hamas to use the ceasefire to rearm, signaling support for a potential resumption of military operations in Gaza. His remarks come as the fragile truce, now in its third week, faces collapse amid accusations of Hamas violating the agreement.

“Israel can’t allow Hamas to use the ceasefire to rebuild itself and recover strength,” Rubio said in an interview with NewsNation. “It’s a ceasefire, but it’s not a stupid ceasefire.”

His comments align with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand that Hamas release all hostages by Saturday at noon or face severe consequences. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the ultimatum, stating that the ceasefire would end if hostages were not freed on time, though his government’s statements have left room for interpretation on the specifics.

Hamas announced on Monday that it was delaying the release of three hostages, accusing Israel of failing to uphold its side of the agreement regarding humanitarian aid deliveries. The Israeli Defense Ministry dismissed these claims as “totally fake news.”

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is preparing for a potential return to fighting, reinforcing troops around Gaza and canceling planned leave for soldiers. If the ceasefire collapses, negotiations for the deal’s second phase meant to secure the release of additional hostages, withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza, and establish a long-term ceasefire could be derailed entirely.

Meanwhile, Jordan’s King Abdullah has agreed to take in 2,000 sick children from Gaza, a move seen as an effort to maintain diplomatic ties with Washington after Trump suggested withholding aid from Arab states that refuse to accept Palestinian refugees.

Rubio emphasized that the U.S. remains open to alternative plans from Arab allies who oppose Trump’s vision for Gaza. “If people don’t like the Trump plan, right now it’s the only plan. If they’ve got a better one, we need to hear it,” he said.

With the ceasefire at risk and tensions escalating, the coming days will determine whether negotiations continue or hostilities resume. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates to stay informed on the latest developments in Israel and Gaza.