US Secretary of State Meets Netanyahu, Prays at Western Wall

Ohana Magazine – On September 14, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The visit carried strong political meaning and symbolic value. During the trip, Rubio prayed with Netanyahu at the Western Wall, one of Judaism’s holiest sites.

Prayers at the Western Wall

Rubio, a Catholic, wore a kippa as he prayed beside Netanyahu. AFP reported that US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, an evangelical pastor, joined the moment. Both men touched the wall, showing reverence and solidarity with Israel.

Exploring Historic Sites

After praying, the group toured remains of the Second Temple. The Romans destroyed it in 70 CE. This site holds deep meaning in Jewish history and identity. For Rubio, the visit highlighted resilience and faith across centuries of struggle.

Netanyahu’s Statement of Admiration

Netanyahu praised Rubio during a press event. He called him “an extraordinary friend of Israel.” The prime minister said Rubio’s visit showed the lasting strength of US-Israel ties. He compared the alliance to the enduring stones of the Western Wall.

First Senior US Diplomat at the Wall Since 2019

Rubio became the most senior American official to pray at the wall since Mike Pompeo in 2019. At that time, Pompeo’s presence was symbolic. Traditionally, US administrations avoid the site to stay neutral on Jerusalem’s disputed status.

Sensitivity of the Western Wall

The Western Wall stands beside the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites. This proximity makes it highly sensitive in diplomacy. Because of this, most US leaders skip public visits to the wall. Rubio’s choice signaled stronger alignment with Israeli perspectives.

Comparison With Antony Blinken

Rubio’s predecessor, Antony Blinken, visited Israel several times after the Hamas attacks in October 2023. Despite being Jewish, Blinken never appeared at the Western Wall. Instead, he stayed in Tel Aviv, a more secular setting for diplomacy. The contrast highlights Rubio’s different approach.