Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Israel late Saturday night, marking his first visit to the Middle East since assuming office. His trip, which runs from February 15-18, includes stops in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The visit underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to regional stability and strengthening U.S. alliances.

According to a State Department press release, Rubio’s agenda includes securing the release of American and other hostages held by Hamas, advancing the next phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, and countering Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region. His visit comes just hours after Hamas released three hostages, including U.S. citizen Sagui Dekel-Chen.

A longtime advocate for Israel, Marco Rubio has consistently supported policies that reinforce America’s partnership with the Jewish state. He recently canceled a planned trip to South Africa for a G20 summit of foreign ministers, citing the country’s diplomatic hostility toward Israel, including its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

Beyond the immediate crisis in Gaza, Rubio is expected to engage in discussions about expanding the Abraham Accords—an initiative originally brokered under President Trump to normalize relations between Israel and Arab nations. Another key point of discussion will be President Trump’s proposal for U.S. control over post-war Gaza, which includes relocating most of its 2 million Palestinian residents to other Arab or Muslim nations.

Rubio’s diplomatic mission highlights the administration’s firm stance on defending Israel, countering terrorism, and advancing peace in the region. His meetings with regional leaders will play a critical role in shaping U.S. policy and ensuring that American interests remain at the forefront of Middle Eastern diplomacy.