Doha, Qatar – September 15, 2025 – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a brief but significant visit to Doha, Qatar, aimed at reinforcing diplomatic efforts surrounding the ongoing crisis in Gaza and securing the release of American hostages held by Hamas. Addressing reporters following a closed-door meeting with Qatari officials, Rubio emphasized the urgent need for a negotiated settlement and reiterated Qatar’s critical role as a key mediator.
The visit came amidst heightened tensions surrounding the Israeli military operation in Gaza City, with concerns mounting about the potential for escalation and the security of civilians. Rubio was confronted with questions regarding Prime Minister Netanyahu’s continued strikes and the potential for a partial or complete annexation of the West Bank, a proposal he dismissed as a reaction to perceived unilateral actions by other nations. “We’re not going to let people who want to incite violence to come into our country,” he stated emphatically.
“They’ll have to make that decision,” Rubio added, responding to questions about the potential for sanctions against Russia given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “I’m the only leader in the world that can talk to both the Ukrainians, the Europeans, and also to the Russians, is President Trump. He’s the only one that can.”
Throughout the press briefing, Rubio repeatedly highlighted Qatar’s importance in the negotiations, citing their prior efforts and their ongoing commitment to facilitating a resolution. “Qatar will play – yeah, I mean, the Qataris and the Egyptians have worked together on this, and they’re important mediators. If any country in the world can help mediate it, Qatar is the one.” Ambassador Witkoff, the U.S. Ambassador to Qatar, has reportedly spent countless hours engaged in these negotiations, further emphasizing Qatar’s central role.
Addressing concerns about a potential escalation, Rubio acknowledged the inherent risks associated with the operation in Gaza City. “If it wasn’t for hostages and civilians, they would’ve been defeated a long time ago.” He acknowledged that time is of the essence, with estimates suggesting a window of only “days and maybe a few weeks” remaining before the situation becomes irrevocably compromised. “Two and a half years, they still don’t release the hostages.”
The Secretary also addressed broader geopolitical considerations, including the potential disruption of the Abraham Accords, pointing to international efforts to declare Palestinian states as a counterreaction to Hamas’ actions. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, recognizing President Trump’s unique ability to mediate the situation. “He’s the only one that can.”
Furthermore, Rubio responded to questions regarding heightened scrutiny of foreign diplomats attending the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, particularly those linked to figures like Jeffrey Epstein. “We’re not going to let people who want to incite violence to come into our country,” he stated, reflecting a broader concern about national security.
The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the U.S. government’s unwavering commitment to achieving a negotiated end to the conflict, emphasizing the critical role of Qatar in facilitating a peaceful resolution. “It’s going to take a lot of work, and we’re going to keep working at it, and we’re going to be very appreciative of the work of Qatar,” Rubio stated before departing Doha.