U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday to reiterate Washington's support for its ally, and the two also discussed Iran and Israeli hostages in Gaza,

In a speech as Israel awaited the release of the first hostages on Saturday, Mr Netanyahu said both president Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the president-elect, had promised him Israel had the right to resume the fighting “in new ways and with very great power” if Hamas violated the deal.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a discussion on Thursday to evaluate the Israeli military’s preparedness for the possibility of a third attack on Iran. Also on the agenda: a more aggressive U.S. policy expected from the incoming Trump administration regarding Iran.

Mr Rubio told Mr Netanyahu that the US will continue to work "tirelessly" to help free the remaining hostages in Gaza. Read more at straitstimes.com.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held his first call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing Washingtons unwavering support for Israel. Rubio, serving under President Donald Trumps administration,