US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday to reiterate Washington’s support for its ally, and the two also discussed Iran and Israeli hostages in Gaza, Reuters quotes the State Department as saying.

The call was Rubio’s first with Israel since the administration of Republican President Donald Trump took office on Monday. Rubio underscored that “maintaining the United States’ steadfast support for Israel is a top priority for Trump”, the State Department said in a statement.

Rubio also held calls yesterday with Saudi Arabia crown prince Mohammed bin Salman and United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the State Department said, adding the topics discussed included Gaza, Syria and Lebanon, among others.

Rubio told Netanyahu that Washington will continue to work “tirelessly” to help free the remaining hostages in Gaza, the State Department added.

“The Secretary also conveyed (to Netanyahu) that he looks forward to addressing the threats posed by Iran and pursuing opportunities for peace,” the State Department said.