Doha: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as Israel's vital ally voices unease over air strikes on Qatar that threaten to derail already flailing attempts to reach a Gaza ceasefire. In the press conference that followed, they seemed to be on the same page as Noga Tarnopolsky analyses from Jerusalem.

According to France24.com, the discussions between Rubio and Netanyahu focused on the recent developments in the Middle East, particularly the air strikes targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar. The US expressed its support for Israel while simultaneously expressing concern about the potential consequences of these strikes on the ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire in Gaza. The meeting underscored the US's commitment to supporting Israel's security while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the region.

The press conference highlighted the shared objectives of the US and Israel in addressing threats posed by Hamas, as well as the broader implications for regional stability. Rubio reiterated the US's stance on safeguarding Israel's security interests, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the two nations in addressing regional challenges.

Netanyahu, on his part, expressed appreciation for the US's support and acknowledged the critical role it plays in maintaining peace and security in the region. The discussions between the two leaders also touched upon the broader implications of the Qatar strikes, particularly in the context of the ongoing efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza.

The meeting between Rubio and Netanyahu reaffirms the strong bilateral ties between the US and Israel, even as they navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics. The ongoing dialogue between the two nations reflects their shared commitment to addressing regional threats and working towards a stable and secure future for the region.