US-Israeli Relations & Regional Diplomacy - US-Israeli ties remain strong despite recent strains caused by Israel's attack on Doha [1] - Marco Rubio's visit to Qatar aims to encourage Qatar to resume its mediation role in the conflict [2] - The summit in Qatar, attended by regional leaders including the crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, showed support for Qatar [3] Qatar's Mediation Efforts - Despite outrage over the strikes on Doha, Qatar signaled its willingness to continue its mediation role [4][5] - Qatar believes the strikes on Doha hindered talks and made it difficult for Hamas to return to the negotiation table [5] - Rubio will likely encourage Qatar to put more pressure on Hamas to return to negotiations [6] Israel's Stance & Gaza Offensive - Israel is now insisting on a full surrender of Hamas, disarmament, and the release of all 48 hostages, with approximately 20 believed to be alive [7] - Israel is expected to intensify its offensive in northern Gaza [2][7] - Israel believes the increased offensive will increase the chances of Hamas surrendering [8] - Most of the world anticipates that the offensive will be a disaster for Palestinian civilians [8]