Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Israel and the United States in confronting Iran’s nuclear threat and regional aggression. Following a high-level meeting in Jerusalem with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu expressed confidence that with U.S. backing, Israel could “finish the job” in rolling back Iran’s influence in the Middle East.
During the meeting, Netanyahu and Rubio discussed the growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its role in destabilizing the region. Netanyahu stressed that both Israel and the U.S. are committed to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and curbing its destabilizing activities. “Israel and America stand shoulder to shoulder in countering the threat of Iran,” Netanyahu declared, underlining the two nations’ united front.
Secretary Rubio echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, stating, “Behind every terrorist group, behind every act of violence, behind every destabilizing activity in this region is Iran.” He underscored the importance of isolating and countering Iran’s influence, which has been a major contributor to the instability in countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.
Netanyahu also highlighted the progress Israel has made over the past 16 months in countering Iran’s influence. He referred to Israel’s military actions, including weakening Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy force in southern Lebanon, and targeting hundreds of Iranian military sites in Syria to prevent the establishment of a new front against Israel. “If any other force believes Israel will permit hostile groups to operate from Syria, they are gravely mistaken,” Netanyahu warned.
The discussion also covered the ongoing situation in Gaza, where a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is in place after over 15 months of intense conflict. Netanyahu thanked Rubio for the U.S. administration’s steadfast support of Israel’s policy in Gaza, noting that both Israel and the U.S. under President Donald Trump are working closely on a coordinated strategy to address the region’s security challenges.
Rubio added that Hamas cannot continue as a military or governing force in Gaza. “As long as Hamas remains a threat, peace becomes impossible,” he said, emphasizing the need for decisive action against the militant group to ensure lasting stability in the region.
This meeting highlighted the deepening cooperation between Israel and the United States, particularly as both nations face the challenge of managing Iran’s growing power and influence. With their shared commitment to regional security, Israel and the U.S. are poised to continue working together to confront these complex threats, with Netanyahu confident that with continued U.S. support, Israel will achieve its objectives.
