U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged Monday that Washington would provide "unwavering support" for Israel's objectives in Gaza and called for the elimination of Hamas.
"The people of Gaza deserve a better future, but that better future cannot begin until Hamas is eliminated," Rubio told reporters next to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
"You can count on our unwavering support and commitment to see (it) come to fruition."
Netanyahu said Rubio's visit was a "clear message" that the United States stood with Israel and praised President Donald Trump for his backing, calling him the "greatest friend that Israel has ever had."
On Monday, Rubio claimed plans by Western nations to recognize a Palestinian state "emboldened" Hamas.
