Newsweek on Tuesday reported that US President-elect Donald Trump is expected to appoint Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, marking a significant shift in US foreign policy toward a more hardline stance on the Middle East and relations with China.

Rubio, a close ally of Trump and a leading Republican voice on both the Senate Foreign Relations and Senate Intelligence Committees, has been an outspoken advocate for "Israel" and a staunch critic of both the Palestinian Resistance and Iran.

His appointment signals a continuation of strong US support for "Israel", despite that the genocide has so far resulted in over 43,000 Palestinians killed.

Staunch supporter of 'Israel'

Rubio has repeatedly voiced support for "Israel's" actions and labeled Hamas a "terrorist organization" bent on destroying "Israel" and driving out Jews, which he sees as a threat requiring full military action.

In recent statements, Rubio argued that "Israel" has "no choice" but to eliminate Hamas, and has warned of potential escalations with Hezbollah.

He has also rejected ceasefire calls, claiming they would give Hamas time to regroup and strengthen its position, jeopardizing "Israel's" security.

Read more: 'Do what you have to do,' Trump tells Netanyahu after +42,000 killed

Targeting Iran

Rubio's position extends to broader Middle East dynamics, as he views Iran's government as a major source of instability.

He has described Iran as an "oppressive Islamic Republic" that fuels conflict throughout the region, from supporting Hamas to backing Hezbollah.

He has consistently pushed for policies to counter Tehran's influence, aligning with Trump's stance on re-imposing sanctions and supporting Gulf allies opposed to Iran's actions.

Hardline stance on China

As a potential US Secretary of State, Rubio would oversee a portfolio that includes managing complex relations with Russia and China.

His hardline approach is expected to shape how the US addresses challenges in these areas, particularly with China, which Rubio has previously accused of posing an economic and security threat to the United States.

Read more: Trump's new term targets Iran, backs 'Israel', confronts China head-on