Middle East: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has arrived in Israel for high-level talks following recent Israeli airstrikes against Hamas members in Qatar, a significant US ally. Rubio's visit underscores the enduring strength of the Israeli-American alliance, despite recent tensions.

According to Deutsche Welle, Rubio's visit commenced with a visit to the Western Wall in Jerusalem, where he was accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Following the prayers, Netanyahu lauded Rubio as an "extraordinary friend" of Israel, emphasizing the unwavering bond between the two nations. Rubio, addressing reporters prior to his departure from the United States, stated that the recent strike in Doha would not alter the fundamental nature of US-Israeli relations, despite US President Donald Trump's unusual criticism of the attack.

Rubio also highlighted the necessity for discussions with Israeli officials regarding the potential repercussions of the Qatar strike on ongoing truce negotiations with Hamas. His primary meetings, including those with Netanyahu, are scheduled for Monday, with his departure from Israel planned for Tuesday.

In other developments, the final stage of Spain's La Vuelta cycling race was canceled due to pro-Palestinian protests in Madrid. Thousands of demonstrators gathered along the race route, leading to clashes with police. Consequently, Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard was declared the winner of the race. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed pride in the protests, commending them as a symbol of Spain's commitment to human rights.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed of Qatar reiterated his country's dedication to collaborating with Egypt and the United States to achieve a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. However, he also called for Israel to be held accountable for its actions in the region.

As tensions continue to escalate, Doha is set to host leaders from the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to discuss a draft resolution on the conflict. The discussions come amid Israel's intensified operations in Gaza City, aimed at eliminating Hamas militants following the deadly attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.