U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke by phone with his British counterpart, David Lammy, on Monday to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the besieged Gaza Strip. Reports indicate worsening famine-like conditions, particularly among children, nursing and pregnant women, and the elderly, as a result of Israel's continued blockade.

In a statement, the U.S. State Department said the two diplomats "discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement and secure the release of hostages."

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, the statement noted that both officials "agreed on the need to end the conflict" and reaffirmed "their commitment to ensuring Iran does not develop or acquire nuclear weapons."

The two sides also addressed the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has torn the country apart and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.