Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that further strikes on Hamas leaders could occur "wherever they are," following an attack in Qatar last week. His comments came during a visit from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who Netanyahu described as sending a "clear message" of U.S. support for Israel.

Rubio's visit aimed to clarify Israel's plans in Gaza and to discuss Qatar's potential role as a mediator after the recent attack on Hamas leaders in Doha. After their discussions, both leaders agreed that the complete destruction of Hamas is essential for peace. "As long as they're around, there will be no peace in this region because they are not agents of peace. They are agents of barbarism," Rubio stated.

On Monday, Israel continued its military operations in Gaza City, targeting what it claims is Hamas' last stronghold. The Israeli military has ordered the evacuation of a high-rise building in the city and has destroyed several others, alleging that Hamas used them for surveillance. Recent airstrikes reportedly killed at least 12 people, including children, according to health officials at Al-Shifa Hospital.

In a poignant moment, a newborn baby was found in a Gaza hospital, the sole survivor of an Israeli strike that killed her family. A couple who had struggled with infertility decided to adopt her, providing a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.

Rubio's visit occurred despite U.S. President Donald Trump's displeasure over the Israeli strike in Doha, which he claimed the U.S. was not informed about in advance. The attack, which resulted in at least six deaths, appears to have derailed efforts for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Although Trump expressed dissatisfaction, Rubio and Netanyahu's meeting suggested a united front between the U.S. and Israel. "Your presence here in Israel today is a clear message that America stands with Israel. You stand with us in the face of terror," Netanyahu remarked.

When asked about the U.S. response to the Doha attack, Rubio did not provide a direct answer but emphasized that the U.S. is focused on future developments and will continue to encourage Qatar's involvement in negotiations. He downplayed concerns regarding Israel's operations in Gaza, reiterating that Trump is committed to ending the conflict, which he believes requires the destruction of Hamas.

Netanyahu showed no signs of halting Israel's military actions in Gaza, where he claims Hamas fighters are hiding. Rubio's visit also aimed to demonstrate U.S. support for Israel amid anticipated international criticism at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, where several European nations and Australia plan to recognize a Palestinian state.

Rubio criticized the push for Palestinian statehood, calling it counterproductive to peace efforts. He argued that such declarations only embolden Hamas and hinder progress toward a peaceful resolution. "They have really no impact whatsoever in bringing us any closer to a Palestinian state," he said. "The only impact they actually have is it makes Hamas feel more emboldened. It's actually served as an impediment to peace."

Netanyahu also opposes the recognition of a Palestinian state. The ongoing conflict in Gaza escalated after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 individuals. Currently, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israel believing that 20 of them are still alive. In response, Israel's military actions have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 64,871 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which has not specified how many were civilians or combatants.