US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Riyadh for discussions with Saudi officials on Trump’s plan for Gaza. This visit marks his first Middle East tour as the top US diplomat. His trip to Saudi Arabia came after President Donald Trump suggested "taking over" Gaza and relocating millions of Palestinians from the blockaded territory.

According to Xinhua news agency, the US State Department affirmed that Rubio met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, emphasising the need for a Gaza arrangement that strengthens regional security.

As per the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA), representatives of both countries discussed regional and global developments and measures to attain security and stability.

According to the SPA, Rubio also held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, regional and international developments, and ongoing efforts in these areas.

U.S. news outlets reported that an important topic on Rubio’s agenda was advocating for Trump’s Gaza relocation proposal, a plan that has faced strong opposition from Arab states.

Egypt, alongside Saudi Arabia and Jordan, are continuing efforts to develop an Arab-led alternative. Last week, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry stated that the country would propose a “comprehensive vision” for rebuilding Gaza without displacing its inhabitants.

On Friday, Riyadh is ready to host a regional summit with Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, and other participants to finalise their proposals.

Although the US has signalled openness to alternative proposals from Arab governments, Rubio has insisted that “the only plan is the Trump plan.”

Meanwhile, Rubio along with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz will meet Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in Riyadh on Tuesday to discuss the Ukraine issue. Saudi Arabia is the second destination on Rubio’s Middle East tour. His visit to Israel is complete, and he is expecting to travel to the UAE.