Next week, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Israel, amid President Donald Trump’s dissatisfaction with the ongoing negotiations with Iran.
The U.S. Department of State announced that Rubio’s trip will take place from March 2 to 3, focusing on relations with Iran and Lebanon, as well as executing Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza.
This marks Rubio’s fifth visit to Israel as Secretary of State; his first occurred in February 2025, followed by visits in September and twice in October of the previous year.
While no additional details were shared regarding this diplomatic mission, it occurs at a sensitive time for Middle Eastern relations. Recently, the U.S. and Iran engaged in a third round of indirect talks in Switzerland, aiming to negotiate restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program.
Another round of discussions is scheduled for Austria on the same day Rubio arrives in Israel. Meanwhile, during a recent public appearance, Trump expressed frustration at the slow pace of the negotiations, stating, “I’m not happy with the fact that they’re not willing to give us what we have to have.”
As tensions rise, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee emailed embassy staff in Israel, permitting them to leave the country due to potential safety risks from terrorism and civil unrest, yet assured them there was “no need to panic.”
Concerns are mounting regarding the potential for U.S. military action against Iran, especially following Trump’s deployment of a significant military presence near Iran. He indicated a willingness to act militarily to compel a nuclear agreement or support Iranian protesters, stating, “I will never hesitate to confront threats to America wherever we must.”
