U.S.–Israel Relations: Rubio’s Press Remarks Reveal a Tone of Dependency

On September 13, 2025, the State Department released the full transcript of Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s exchange with reporters. At first glance, nothing seemed unusual: the Secretary reiterated America’s “very strong” ties with Israel, voiced concern about recent events, and promised further discussions. But taken together, the remarks left a striking impression.

First, every hint of criticism was immediately balanced with reassurances of unwavering friendship. Rubio repeated that the alliance remains “very strong” and will not be altered, even when Israel’s actions run counter to U.S. preferences. The message was clear: disagreements won’t shake the partnership.

Second, the U.S. deliberately distanced itself from any notion of leverage. When pressed on what tools Washington could use to influence Tel Aviv, Rubio answered, “I wouldn’t call it leverage.” This framing removes any sense of American authority, presenting the relationship as one of coordination rather than conditional support.

Third, Israel’s controversial moves were explained away as reactions to others. On the question of settlement recognition and the Palestinian statehood debate, Rubio described Israel’s actions as responses to European and Canadian initiatives. In effect, the burden of escalation was shifted elsewhere.

Yes, the transcript contained mild criticisms: the President “wasn’t pleased” with Israel’s recent strike in Doha, the administration was “concerned.” But those remarks carried no consequences, conditions, or demands. They functioned more as a performance for domestic audiences than as signals to Jerusalem.

In the end, the impression is one of asymmetry: the United States continues to shield Israel from fallout while limiting its own room to maneuver. What looks like diplomacy between equals increasingly reads as Washington accommodating an ally whose actions shape, rather than follow, U.S. policy.