Israeli airstrikes destroyed over 30 residential buildings in Gaza City this weekend, displacing thousands of Palestinians, according to local authorities. The escalation coincides with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's arrival in Jerusalem for high-stakes discussions on hostage negotiations and post-conflict reconstruction.
Israeli military officials confirmed intensified operations in Gaza City, describing it as Hamas' "last stronghold." Approximately one million Palestinians remain sheltering in the area amid the offensive, which Israel claims aims to dismantle Hamas' infrastructure.
Rubio emphasized Washington's priorities during a press briefing: "We're focused on securing the release of 48 hostages still held in Gaza and planning for the territory's recovery." Only 20 hostages are believed to survive. The Secretary of State is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders through Tuesday.
The diplomatic visit included a symbolic stop at Jerusalem's Western Wall with Netanyahu, underscoring the religious and political sensitivities surrounding the conflict. Analysts suggest Rubio's agenda may balance immediate humanitarian concerns with long-term strategic objectives in the region.
