Rubio Voices Frustration as U.S. Rethinks Gaza Strategy
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio voiced deep frustration over Gaza ceasefire failures, telling hostage families it’s time to “rethink everything,” as Trump signals a harder line and international pressure mounts.
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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly told families of Israeli hostages on Friday that Washington may need to “seriously rethink everything” regarding its Gaza strategy, Axios reported. His comments came after another collapse in ceasefire negotiations, with Hamas rejecting terms and Israel withdrawing its delegation.
Rubio’s remarks reflect growing discontent within the Trump administration, now six months into its return to power, as the war drags on with no clear end in sight. Despite President Trump’s campaign promise to end the conflict and bring hostages home, talks remain stalled, and both the U.S. and Israel face mounting international isolation.
Frustration is also mounting among Trump’s base, particularly in MAGA circles, over his unwavering support for Prime Minister Netanyahu’s hardline policies. On Friday, Trump hinted at the need to escalate the conflict, stating, “It might be time,” during remarks in Scotland.
Behind closed doors, Trump has reportedly urged Netanyahu to “do what needs to be done in Gaza,” while military pressure has intensified, including the deployment of 2,000-pound bombs not approved during the Biden era. Still, Hamas remains entrenched, and no significant breakthrough has occurred.
Rubio expressed skepticism about the phased hostage release model inherited from Biden’s administration, calling for a broader plan to end the war and secure full hostage release. While Trump has backed humanitarian efforts through a private American body to bypass the UN, he has stopped short of pressuring Israel to open Gaza crossings.
There are unverified reports that the humanitarian crisis has worsened (although it's very likley just more Hamas propaganda), countries like France, Germany, and the U.K. issued a joint statement urging immediate relief access. Meanwhile, Trump’s call to “finish the job” has sparked unease among even America’s traditional allies.
Sources say senior U.S. officials acknowledge that the current approach is failing but have yet to chart a new course. For both Washington and Jerusalem, one thing is increasingly clear: time is not on their side.