Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a strong alliance with the U.S. to combat Iran’s nuclear ambitions following a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Both leaders emphasized military strategies to counter Iran’s aggression and the need to eliminate Hamas as a governing force. Netanyahu expressed confidence in their ability to conclude military operations against Iranian-backed groups in the region, backed by President Trump’s support.
On February 16, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the commitment of both Israel and the United States to counteract Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its regional aggression during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem. Netanyahu characterized their discussions as “very productive,” emphasizing that Iran poses a significant threat that necessitates unified action from both nations.
Netanyahu firmly stated, “Israel and America stand shoulder to shoulder in countering the threat of Iran,” declaring that efforts must be made to prevent the Ayatollah regime from acquiring nuclear weapons and to diminish Iran’s contentious activities in the region. Mr. Rubio echoed this sentiment, attributing various acts of terrorism and destabilization in the region directly to Iran’s influence.
The Israeli Prime Minister noted the substantial steps Israel had already taken to weaken Iranian influence over the past 16 months, citing military operations against Iranian-backed factions. Netanyahu expressed confidence in completing this mission with the continued support from President Trump, asserting, “I have no doubt we can and will finish the job.”
Additionally, Netanyahu highlighted operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon and numerous strikes in Syria to deter Iran from establishing a hostile front. He warned other entities against assuming that Israel would allow Syria to serve as a base for operations directed at it.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Secretary Rubio for his unwavering support of Israel’s policies, particularly concerning Gaza. He outlined a cooperative effort between his government and the Trump administration to address the ongoing conflict in the Palestinian enclave, which has seen a fragile ceasefire after an extended period of violence.
In conclusion, Rubio emphasized the necessity of dismantling Hamas as a governing force to achieve lasting peace, highlighting the challenges faced by the region until such threats are neutralized. This strategic partnership between Israel and the U.S. underscores their mutual commitment to regional stability and security against Iran’s hostile maneuvers.
The discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio elucidate the strategies being employed by both nations to combat Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional violence. Their joint commitment emphasizes military action against Iranian-backed groups and the importance of dismantling hostile entities such as Hamas to ensure peace in West Asia. Continued close cooperation between the U.S. and Israel is deemed essential for achieving these goals.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
