US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Israel to discuss the latest developments in the ongoing war in Gaza with local officials. He left the country for Israel on Saturday (September 13) local time.

"Rubio is on this trip to highlight America's priorities on the Israel-Hamas conflict and broader Middle East security issues, and to reaffirm America's commitment to Israel's security," State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Piggott said in a statement.

The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions between the longtime allies. Earlier this week, Israel attempted to assassinate Hamas leaders in Qatar. The airstrikes, which were taking place during peace talks, have angered Qatar as well as other key US allies.

After the attack on Qatar, President Donald Trump told reporters that he was very unhappy with Israel's attack.

"I was very unhappy about this, unhappy on every side and we need to bring back the prisoners," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened further attacks on Qatar over Hamas' presence in the country, which has been hosting Hamas for years at the request of the United States, while Egypt is also mediating ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel.

"I say to all countries, including Qatar, that harbor extremists, you either expel them or ensure justice. If you don't, we will," Netanyahu said on Wednesday (September 10).

Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed al-Thani met with Trump on Friday (September 12) and also attended a meeting at the United Nations. He accused Israel of undermining talks to end the war. Al-Thani later met with Rubio and US Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House.