Senator Rubio to Visit Israel Amid Tensions Over US-Iran Talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Visit Israel Next Week Amid Ongoing Iran Negotiations

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Israel from March 2 to 3, as part of a diplomatic effort to strengthen relations with the country and address ongoing negotiations with Iran. The US Department of State has announced that Rubio’s trip will focus on relations with Iran and Lebanon, as well as implementing President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for war-torn Gaza.

This will be Rubio’s fifth visit to Israel as secretary of state, following previous trips in February 2025, September, and twice in October last year. The timing of the trip comes at a delicate time for relations in the Middle East, with recent indirect talks between the US and Iran taking place in Switzerland and Austria.

On Friday, President Trump expressed frustration with the slow pace of negotiations, stating that he is not happy with the lack of progress. “I’d love not to use it, but sometimes you have to,” Trump said when asked about the possibility of using military force against Iran. The US has deployed a significant naval presence near Iran in recent months, including two aircraft carriers.

The US Embassy in Jerusalem has issued a public notice advising staff to consider leaving the country due to safety concerns related to terrorism and civil unrest. The notice cited “safety risks” and stated that persons may wish to leave while commercial flights are available. A separate email from US Ambassador Mike Huckabee instructed embassy staff to leave the country immediately, although he emphasized that there is no need to panic.

The situation remains tense, with ongoing concerns about a potential military escalation with Iran. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has warned against the possibility of military action, highlighting the risk of civilian harm.

Source: Al Jazeera