Rubio plans Israel trip as Trump says he’s ‘not happy’ with US-Iran talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Israel from March 2-3, 2026, for discussions on Iran, Lebanon, and the Gaza Strip. This marks Rubio's fifth trip to Israel as Secretary of State. The visit coincides with ongoing indirect negotiations between the US and Iran in Switzerland and Austria regarding Iran's nuclear program. President Trump publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of these talks, stating that he is "not happy" with Iran's willingness to concede to US demands. Trump also reiterated that military action remains an option, despite his preference to avoid it. Simultaneously, the US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, has permitted embassy staff to leave the country.

Marco Rubio instructed US ambassadors in the Middle East to limit public commentary that could escalate tensions and hinder nuclear deal negotiations with Iran. The directive, issued on February 23rd, urged restraint in public statements, interviews, and social media activity. This followed concerns within the White House that recent remarks by US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, regarding Israel's territorial rights, could negatively impact negotiations. The memo was sent after Huckabee's comments drew condemnation across the Middle East. The directive comes as Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are trying to negotiate a nuclear deal to stave off a military conflict. The latest round of talks between the US and Iran in Geneva on Thursday appeared to be largely unsuccessful.

The U.S. State Department authorized the departure of non-essential personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem on Friday due to potential Iranian strikes. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee advised embassy staff to leave as soon as possible, citing an "abundance of caution" and anticipating high demand for flights. The embassy also reiterated the State Department's existing travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. The advisory specifically warns against travel to Gaza, northern Israel near the Lebanese and Syrian borders, and areas near the Egyptian border, citing ongoing security risks and potential attacks. The State Department's warning highlights the continued threat from terrorist groups and violent extremists targeting various locations within Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.