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Rubio's Israel Visit Amid Iran Nuclear Talks & Gaza Security Focus

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Israel on February 28 for a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, primarily to discuss updates on the Geneva nuclear negotiations with Iran. The White House has indicated that while some progress has been made in talks with Iran, significant differences remain, and diplomacy is the preferred path. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that military action remains a considered option, but President Trump views a diplomatic deal as the wisest course for Iran. The timing of the visit also relates to US efforts focused on security in Gaza amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Key Points: US Secretary Rubio to Visit Israel, Update Netanyahu on Iran Talks

  • Rubio to update Netanyahu on Iran nuclear talks
  • US-Iran Geneva negotiations show limited progress
  • White House emphasizes diplomacy first over military action
  • Visit coincides with Trump's Board of Peace meeting on Gaza security
2 min read

US State Secretary Marco Rubio likely to visit Israel on Feb 28

US Secretary Marco Rubio to meet Israeli PM Netanyahu, discuss Iran nuclear deal progress and Gaza security amid ongoing US-Iran negotiations.

"There was a little bit of progress made, but we are still far apart on some issues. - Karoline Leavitt"

Washington DC, February 19

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to visit Israel on February 28 to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, CNN reported.

According to CNN, Rubio is expected to update Netanyahu on Geneva talks on a nuclear deal with Iran.

The expected visit comes in the backdrop of US and Iranian delegations meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss a high-profile nuclear deal.

Earlier on Wednesday (local time), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that progress has been made in the Geneva talks with Iranian authorities, but the two nations stand "far apart" on certain issues.

"There was a little bit of progress made, but we are still far apart on some issues. We expect the Iranians to come back with the details in the next couple of weeks. The president will continue to watch how this plays out," the press secretary said.

She said that diplomacy is the first option for US President Donald Trump before considering military action against Iran. Speaking to the media, the White House Press Secretary warned Iran, saying it would be wise for Iran to reach a deal with the US.

When asked about a military action against Iran in the backdrop of the deal, Leavitt said, "There are arguments one can make for a strike against Iran. The President had a successful operation as commander-in-chief with Operation Midnight Hammer, completely obliterated Iran's nuclear facilities. The President has always been clear that with Iran or any other country, diplomacy is the first option, and Iran would be wise to make a deal with President Trump."

"He (Donald Trump) is talking to many people, firstly, his national security team. This is something the President takes seriously, thinking about what is in the best interest of America and its people. That is how he will decide on a military action," she added.

Leavitt also hinted that "US forces are in conversation with Israel," while not affirming a military action.

Meanwhile, Rubio's Israel visit also underscores Donald Trump's Board of Peace meeting on Thursday (local time), which will focus on maintaining security in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Interesting timing with the Geneva talks. The US seems to be playing a dual game - talking in Switzerland while coordinating with Israel. India has to navigate these waters very carefully, maintaining good relations with all sides.
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Aditya G
The mention of "Operation Midnight Hammer" is a stark reminder of how quickly things can escalate. While the Iran issue is complex, I wish the international focus was equally strong on conflicts closer to our home in South Asia. Just a thought.
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Priya S
Every time there's tension in the Middle East, oil prices in India shoot up. My father's transport business feels the pinch immediately. Hope they find a peaceful solution this time. 🤞
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Michael C
Living in Delhi, the geopolitical ripples from this are very real. Our government's balancing act with the US, Israel, and Iran is crucial. Rubio's visit is more than just a meeting; it's a signal.
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Kavya N
The article says "diplomacy is the first option" but the language feels more like a threat. "Iran would be wise to make a deal" isn't diplomacy, it's coercion. This approach rarely leads to lasting peace.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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