Maintaining steadfast support for Israel is top priority for Trump: U.S. State Department
The Hindu
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirms support for Israel, discusses Iran, hostages, and peace efforts with Netanyahu.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (January 22, 2025) to reiterate Washington’s support for its ally, and the two also discussed Iran and Israeli hostages in Gaza, the State Department said.
The call was Mr. Rubio’s first with Israel since the administration of Republican President Donald Trump took office on Monday (January 20, 2025). Mr. Trump and his predecessor, Democratic former President Joe Biden, have both been supporters of Israel during its wars in Gaza and Lebanon.
Mr. Rubio underscored that “maintaining the United States’ steadfast support for Israel is a top priority for Trump,” the State Department said in a statement.
Mr. Rubio told Mr. Netanyahu that Washington will continue to work “tirelessly” to help free the remaining hostages in Gaza, the State Department added.
The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered on October 7, 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
Israel’s subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed more than 47,000 Palestinians, the Gaza Health Ministry says, while also leading to accusations of genocide and war crimes that Israel denies.
The assault displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza and caused a hunger crisis. A ceasefire went into effect on Sunday (January 19, 2025) and has led to the release of some Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Islamic State claims responsibility for killing Chinese national in Afghanistan, amid ongoing security concerns for Chinese investors.
Saudi Crown Prince plans to invest $600 billion in the U.S., strengthening economic ties and potential defense partnerships.
Trump's Justice Department freezes civil rights litigation, may reconsider police reform agreements, signaling major changes under new leadership.
Nepal increases Mount Everest climbing fees by 36%, introduces measures to control pollution, effective September 1, 2025.
Trump selects Sean Curran as director of U.S. Secret Service, citing his courage during assassination attempt.
LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand register their marriages on the first day of law giving them equal status
Thailand legalizes same-sex marriage, granting LGBTQ+ couples equal rights and recognition, marking a historic milestone in Asia.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia acquitted in sabotage case after no evidence found, undergoing treatment in London.
China's relations with U.S. partners are evolving as Biden's legacy is questioned and Trump's return looms.
South Korea's anti-corruption agency transfers criminal investigation of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol to prosecutors for indictment.
Republican-led House approves bill requiring detainment of unauthorized immigrants accused of theft and violent crimes, aligning with Trump's immigration crackdown.
India's External Affairs Minister discusses legal return of undocumented Indians from the US, emphasizing support for legal mobility.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirms support for Israel, discusses Iran, hostages, and peace efforts with Netanyahu.
Female student killed and another student wounded on January 22, 2025, in shooting in a Nashville high school cafeteria; Police Chief John Drake said the shooter ‘confronted’ the 16-year-old student in the cafeteria and opened fire, killing her.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on January 22, 2025, he would add new tariffs to his sanctions threat against Russia if the country does not make a deal to end its war in Ukraine, and added that these also could be applied to ‘other participating countries’
President Trump demands apology from Episcopal bishop after prayer service, sparking controversy over LGBTQ+ and migrant worker comments.
Panama complains to U.N. over Trump's threat to seize Panama Canal, launches audit of Hong Kong-linked operator.
Afghans fleeing Taliban appeal to Trump for exemption from U.S. refugee program suspension, risking lives for U.S. support.
Former El Salvador President Mauricio Funes dies in Nicaragua at 65, avoiding criminal sentences, living under protection.