U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit Germany, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE from February 13-18 for high-level diplomatic talks. His agenda includes discussions on regional cooperation, releasing hostages from Hamas, and addressing Iranian aggressions. The visit follows growing criticism of U.S. strategies in the wake of ongoing conflict in Gaza and seeks to reinforce U.S. diplomatic presence and peace initiatives in the Middle East.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Germany, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 13 to 18. This trip, as announced by the State Department, will primarily focus on high-level diplomatic discussions. Rubio will begin in Germany at the Munich Security Conference, where he will engage with international partners before partaking in the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
On the same day, President Trump revealed that Secretary Rubio and Vice President JD Vance would lead a U.S. delegation in discussions concerning Ukraine, following recent communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Post-Munich, Rubio will continue his journey to Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE from February 15 to 18. The agenda includes meetings with senior officials to promote regional cooperation, stability, and peace, with a specific focus on negotiating for the release of American hostages held by Hamas, advancing a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, and countering Iranian destabilization efforts.
This visit occurs amidst widespread opposition from Palestinians, Arab nations, and the Muslim community regarding Trump’s recent plans to acquire control of the Gaza Strip. Such proposals emerged after a tenuous ceasefire took effect in Gaza on January 19, which temporarily halted significant Israeli military actions responsible for extensive casualties and destruction.
During this period, over 48,200 individuals have lost their lives due to the conflict, leaving the region severely impacted. Rubio’s diplomatic mission is crucial as it seeks to address humanitarian concerns and promote a peaceful resolution amidst escalating regional tensions.
Secretary Rubio’s visits aim to enhance diplomatic relations and address critical issues in the Middle East. The focus on hostages, ceasefire progress, and countering Iranian threat aligns with U.S. strategic interests. However, the challenges posed by local and regional discontent towards U.S. policies highlight the complexity of achieving lasting peace in the area.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
