US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has fully endorsed Israel’s war aims in the Gaza Strip, saying Hamas “must be eradicated,” casting doubt on the Gaza ceasefire deal. The second phase of the ceasefire deal, where Hamas is to release dozens of remaining captives in exchange for more Palestinian prisoners, a lasting truce, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, has yet to be negotiated. Rubio said Hamas “cannot continue as a military or government force”. Such language could complicate efforts to continue talks with Hamas, which, despite suffering heavy losses in the war, remains intact and in control of Gaza. The US Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, said on Sunday that talks on the second phase of the ceasefire would continue this week, after he had “very productive and constructive” calls with Netanyahu.

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