Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) recently appeared on ABC News Live to discuss the Iranian-backed Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel. During the interview, Rubio expressed his support for Israel and emphasized the importance of providing assistance to the country. He also addressed the threat posed by Hamas and the need for a strong response to their actions.

Rubio emphasized the need for the United States to stand with Israel and provide them with the necessary support to defend themselves. He highlighted the existing U.S.-Israeli defense arrangement, which authorizes significant financial assistance to Israel. Rubio stated, "The Israelis are also very capable. They’re not asking and never have asked and never will ask us to send American soldiers. What they basically will need is resupply."

Regarding the escalation of the conflict, Rubio stressed the importance of preventing it from spreading further. He mentioned the ongoing messaging to Iran through countries like Qatar and Egypt, emphasizing the need to hold Iran accountable for any attacks on U.S. service members or facilities in the region. Rubio warned against the conflict devolving into a second front from Lebanon, which would increase the level of danger.

Rubio also addressed the issue of Hamas threatening to execute hostages and the difficulty in finding a solution. He acknowledged that there are no good options but stated that eliminating Hamas is the only way to prevent further acts of depravity and future attacks. He noted that Hezbollah's military capabilities are even greater than those of Hamas, making it crucial to take decisive action.

Responding to criticism of the U.S.'s role in exacerbating the problem, Rubio called on other nations to speak out against the terrorist attacks. He highlighted the deliberate targeting of civilians by Hamas and the psychological damage caused by their actions. Rubio expressed his belief that Israel may have no other option but to eliminate Hamas as a viable entity in Gaza, despite the high cost involved.

When asked about the defeat of antisemitism, Rubio acknowledged that eradicating hate entirely may not be possible. However, he stressed the importance of preventing hate from becoming armed and capable of carrying out actions like the recent attacks. Rubio stated, "You may not be able to defeat hate, unfortunately, because hate is part of the human condition. But what you want to prevent is that hate becoming armed and capable of carrying out action."

Rubio also discussed the Coons-Rubio bill that pre-authorized aid to Israel, highlighting the existing authorities and support already in place. He expressed confidence that Congress would provide further support if needed.

Addressing the surprise nature of the recent Hamas attacks, Rubio acknowledged that Israel was caught off guard. He mentioned the ongoing threat from Hezbollah and Hamas and the need for ongoing intelligence analysis to prevent future surprises. Rubio emphasized that the focus should currently be on winning the war before conducting a thorough inquiry into what went wrong.

Rubio concluded by emphasizing the goal of the terrorist attacks, stating, "Hamas is attacking because their organizing principle, the reason why they exist, their stated purpose for existing is, they want to destroy the Jewish state." He highlighted their desire to cause economic collapse, drive people out of Israel, and destroy its relationships internationally. Rubio stressed that these attacks are not about land or economic opportunity but about the destruction of the Jewish state.

In his interview with ABC News Live, Senator Marco Rubio showcased his support for Israel and emphasized the need for the United States to stand with and provide assistance to the country. He addressed the threat posed by Hamas and stressed the importance of a strong response to their actions. Rubio highlighted the existing defense arrangement between the U.S. and Israel and expressed confidence in Congress's support. He also discussed the challenges of defeating antisemitism and the need to prevent hate from becoming armed and capable of carrying out actions. Rubio concluded by emphasizing the goal of Hamas attacks, which is the destruction of the Jewish state.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/icymi-rubio-joins-abc-news-live/