Key Takeaways

• Steve Bannon criticized Marco Rubio for not confronting Israel over its strikes on Qatar.
• Bannon said Rubio simply posed at the Wailing Wall wearing a yarmulke instead of delivering a strong message.
• Bannon warned the U.S. will not back a “Greater Israel” plan if Israel ignores American concerns.
• These comments reveal cracks in the MAGA base over Trump’s foreign and domestic actions.
• The clash adds to tensions around immigration raids and the stalled Epstein files release.

Bannon Rips Marco Rubio Over Israel Strikes

Steve Bannon went on his podcast and took aim at Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He said Rubio failed to deliver a tough message to Israel. Bannon slammed Rubio for not calling out Israel’s airstrikes on Doha, Qatar. He made his remarks on the “War Room” show. His words have stirred debate among Trump supporters.

What Happened?

Last week, Israel struck targets in Qatar. This move sped up the Trump administration’s push to end the war in Gaza. Instead of strongly protesting those strikes, Marco Rubio traveled to Jerusalem. He walked the Wailing Wall and wore a yarmulke. Bannon said that image showed Rubio was more focused on a photo-op than on holding Israel accountable.

Bannon said former Prime Minister Netanyahu had overstepped by firing on Qatar. He expected the U.S. to push back hard. “When Netanyahu fired on Qatar… he had enough, he sent Marco over to give it to him with both barrels,” Bannon said. He added, “This is not acceptable, you’re not going to do this.” Instead, Rubio did not scold Israel.

Marco Rubio’s Response Under Fire

Rubio has stayed mostly quiet since Bannon’s attack. He has not directly replied to the criticism. On his trip, he stressed the U.S. supports Israel’s right to defend itself. Rubio also pointed to the shared values between the two nations. Still, Bannon’s words hit a nerve. They come at a time when many on the right want stronger U.S. pressure on Israel’s actions.

Why This Matters for the MAGA Base

Bannon’s attack on Marco Rubio shows growing divisions among Trump’s allies. The MAGA base is already upset over other issues. Some supporters are unhappy about immigration raids. Others want the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Now they also question U.S. policy on Israel. This mix of complaints could weaken Trump’s hold on his core voters.

Moreover, Rubio is seen by many as a bridge between establishment Republicans and Trump loyalists. By slamming him, Bannon is challenging that bridge. He is telling the base they need firmer voices in key roles. This call for toughness may push other Republicans to take clearer stances.

Implications for U.S.-Israel Relations

If the Trump administration had confronted Israel publicly, it might have cooled tensions with Qatar. On the other hand, a strong public rebuke could strain U.S.-Israel ties. For now, the administration has moved quietly to end the Gaza conflict. Yet Bannon’s remarks shine a spotlight on how foreign policy debates now play out in the media.

Also, some analysts say public criticism could backfire. It could rally more support for Israel among U.S. voters. It could also give Israel’s leaders a reason to dig in. However, others believe a private diplomatic push may be less effective. They say clear public messages carry more weight in international affairs.

How Marco Rubio Fits In

Marco Rubio rose to national fame as a senator from Florida. He joined Trump’s transition team. Later, he became Secretary of State. Many expected him to use that role to speak out. After all, a top diplomat often faces tough conversations. Yet Bannon argues that Rubio missed his moment.

Rubio’s critics say he has been too careful on key issues. They point to immigration, trade, and now the Middle East. They say he chooses safe photo-ops over hard talks. Supporters of Rubio reply that diplomacy often happens behind closed doors. They note that no official statement from the State Department has rejected or approved the strikes.

Looking Ahead

This clash between Bannon and Rubio may not end soon. It could shape GOP debates ahead of the next election. It may also influence how the Trump team handles foreign policy. If public pressure grows, Rubio might speak out more forcefully. Or the administration could double down on quiet diplomacy.

Meanwhile, Trump supporters will watch closely. They want to see if their leaders back Israel without question. Or if they will push for more restraint. Either way, the fight over how to handle Israel and Qatar has just begun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Bannon accuse Marco Rubio of?

Bannon accused Rubio of failing to deliver a tough message to Israel after its strikes on Qatar. He said Rubio opted for a photo-op at the Wailing Wall instead.

How did Marco Rubio respond to the criticism?

Rubio has not directly answered Bannon. He emphasized U.S. support for Israel’s security but has not publicly weighed in on the airstrikes.

Why does this matter to Trump supporters?

The clash highlights divisions over foreign policy, immigration raids, and other issues. It shows that some base members want stronger or more public stances from their leaders.

Could this affect U.S.-Israel relations?

Possibly. Public criticism might strain ties, while quiet diplomacy could lack the force some in the GOP desire. The debate over the best approach is ongoing.