Rubio: Gaza Must Be Free of Hamas and Governed by Palestinians
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated at the UN that a post-war Gaza must be free of Hamas and led by Palestinians, while addressing regional threats from Iran and militia developments in Iraq.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed reporters at the UN General Assembly, discussing the Iranian threat, the situation in Iraq, and the future of the Gaza Strip. His remarks came moments after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stepped down from the UN podium following sharp accusations against the United States.
Addressing Gaza, Rubio stated that a long-term solution requires a demilitarized enclave free of Hamas, expressing hope that disarmament efforts would begin soon. He added that post-war governance of the Strip should be managed by a Palestinian leadership.
Turning to Iran, Rubio warned that Tehran and its proxies pose a regional threat, specifically highlighting the situation involving the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. Despite Houthi threats, Rubio affirmed that the U.S. remains committed to supporting Saudi Arabia, while noting that various options—including military ones—remain on the table for President Donald Trump.
Rubio also commented on developments in Iraq regarding the disarmament of Iranian-backed militias. Although the process was initially slated for next week, the Iraqi prime minister postponed it by nine months to June 30, 2027. Rubio downplayed the delay, stating that Washington does not doubt the Iraqi premier commitment to curbing illicit arms.
