U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism over ongoing efforts to stabilize the situation in Gaza, saying that while challenges remain, recent developments mark significant progress compared to just a week ago.

“No one here is claiming this is done,” Rubio said in a statement. “What we are claiming is that we are in a much better place today than we were seven days ago. A lot can go wrong, but so much could go right if we can get this done — and we're very dedicated to making that happen.”

Rubio’s remarks come amid renewed diplomatic momentum surrounding President Donald Trump’s peace initiative, which has recently seen positive responses from regional actors, including Hamas’s tentative agreement to a proposed framework for hostage releases.

The Secretary reiterated that the U.S. remains committed to securing lasting stability in Gaza, balancing humanitarian priorities with long-term regional security goals.