Rubio Discusses Hamas Negotiations with Netanyahu
In a press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed doubts about a potential agreement with Hamas, which he remarked “probably won’t happen.” He pointed out that these “sparrow terrorists” frequently have disagreements over disarmament.
When asked about the possibility of disarming Hamas, Rubio acknowledged that while the group could theoretically lay down their arms, he remains skeptical. “Hamas can put their weapons down tonight if they want,” he stated, emphasizing that their core mission involves the destruction of Israel. “So, we don’t really rely on that happening,” he added.
Rubio highlighted that the U.S. would prefer a diplomatic resolution to what has become a nearly three-year conflict, sparked by the violent killings of over 1,200 Israelis and the risk to countless others.
He mentioned, “No one believes that Hamas has ceased to be a terrorist organization, nor do they foresee a negotiation that would involve them disarming and releasing hostages.” This, he noted, would be the ideal outcome.
While the secretary confirmed that efforts are underway to achieve peace, he acknowledged the harsh reality: “Savage terrorists usually aren’t inclined to agree to such things.” Nonetheless, they will continue to follow diplomatic avenues. He did warn, however, that “an eventual brief military operation might be necessary to eliminate them.”
Rubio urged the necessity of recognizing the gravity of the situation, stating that “we’re dealing with individuals who have committed themselves to violence.” Although they hope for a peaceful solution, he stressed the need to prepare for the possibility that such an outcome might not materialize.
He stated that without a negotiated settlement, the conflict could only end with Hamas’s defeat, referencing the attacks on October 7, 2023. “How does that end? By getting rid of those who pose a threat, and finally addressing the issue of hostages,” he explained. “There never should have been hostages in the first place.”
Rubio mentioned that once these objectives are accomplished, the focus could shift to providing a hopeful future for the people of Gaza. “As long as groups like Hamas exist, that future remains elusive,” he remarked.
Rubio’s visit to Israel comes shortly after the country conducted strikes targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar. He is anticipated to visit Doha later this week and indicated plans to explore Qatar’s potential role in the conflict.
He concluded by saying, “We will continue to encourage Qatar to play a constructive role. The fundamentals remain: there’s Hamas—both dead and alive—and ongoing conflict. Our focus must be on paving a way for a better future for Gaza and working toward a peaceful resolution to the current situation.”
