US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Israel next week amid President Donald Trump's expressed dissatisfaction with ongoing negotiations with Iran.

The State Department announced Rubio's March 2-3 visit will focus on relations with Iran and Lebanon, along with implementing Trump's 20-point plan for war-torn Gaza.

This marks Rubio's fifth trip to Israel as secretary of state, following visits in February 2025, September, and twice in October last year.

Trump voiced frustration on Friday about the slow pace of talks: "I'm not happy with the fact that they're not willing to give us what we have to have. I'm not thrilled with that. We'll see what happens." He did not rule out military action.

Trump's comments may fuel fears of military escalation with Iran. US Ambassador Mike Huckabee authorized embassy staff in Israel to depart the country, signaling heightened tensions.

The Trump administration has deployed a "massive armada" near Iranian waters since January, including two aircraft carriers. Trump has repeatedly hinted at potential attacks to curb Iran's nuclear program or protect protesters.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stated on Friday that eight protesters have been sentenced to death, with 30 more at risk. He warned against military action's civilian impact.

Trump has also suggested military intervention if Iran fails to agree to a nuclear deal. On February 19, he said Iran had "10, 15 days, pretty much maximum" to reach an agreement.

Source: www.aljazeera.com