US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the meeting between the US and Hamas regarding the release of hostages was a “one-time occurrence” and did not yield results for now. Providing information about the meeting held by his country’s special envoy Adam Boehler with Hamas while en route to Saudi Arabia, Rubio emphasized that the purpose of the meeting with Hamas was to secure the release of the hostages. Rubio stated, “This was a one-time occurrence where our special envoy with the goal of ensuring the release of hostages had the opportunity to speak directly with someone who has control over the hostages, and he got permission and encouragement to do so. And he did.” Rubio, mentioning that the meeting did not yield results for now, said, “This does not mean his attempt was wrong.”

Referring to US President Donald Trump’s Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Rubio mentioned, “Our primary resource in negotiations on this front is Mr. Witkoff and his work mediated by Qatar.” Pointing out that Witkoff went to Qatar, Rubio expressed, “I hope these talks bear fruit and all hostages are released.”

Rubio also addressed a question about Israel cutting off electricity supply to Gaza. Stating, “I feel that Hamas is not serious about negotiations. They are still holding hostages and bodies in terrible conditions. They insist on extremely disproportionate exchanges.” Rubio accused Hamas of this behavior and highlighted that Israel is taking actions to force Hamas to make decisions for their own benefit.