U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to a contested archaeological site in Jerusalem on Monday underscored Washington's alignment with Israeli-led projects in East Jerusalem, drawing criticism from Palestinian leaders and international observers. The City of David park, located near the religiously sensitive Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif complex, has long been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Rubio's tour, accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, followed the Trump administration's 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital—a policy shift that continues to shape regional dynamics. The visit comes as multiple Western nations prepare to formally recognize Palestinian statehood at an upcoming UN meeting, a move Israel strongly opposes.
During his trip, Rubio announced plans to travel to Qatar, urging the Gulf state to leverage its influence with Hamas to secure the release of 48 hostages still held in Gaza. His remarks signaled support for Israel's proposed military escalation in Gaza, despite growing international calls for de-escalation.
Meanwhile, an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha condemned Israel's recent strikes on Hamas leaders in Qatar, highlighting regional tensions. As diplomatic efforts unfolded, Israeli forces intensified ground operations in Gaza City, according to U.S. media reports.
