Netanyahu's Commitment: "We Can Finish the Job" Against Iran in Strategic Talks with US

In a decisive statement during his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence in Israel and the United States' unified stance against Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional aggression. This high-level dialogue underscores the ongoing partnership and strategic alignment between the two nations concerning Middle Eastern stability.

Netanyahu emphasized the critical nature of the discussions, stating that their prime focus was the threat posed by Iran. Both nations concurred on the necessity to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to push back against its regional assertiveness. According to Netanyahu, the leaders agreed that "the ayatollahs must not have nuclear weapons," highlighting a shared commitment to countering Iranian influence across the Middle East.

During the meeting, Rubio articulated the perceived extent of Iran’s influence, linking the nation to various destabilizing forces in the region. This includes backing several groups that form the so-called “Axis of Resistance,” which includes Hamas in Palestine, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and other militias across Iraq and Syria. These groups have been central in opposing Israeli and US influence, complicating the geopolitical landscape.

The talks also touched upon recent conflicts, notably the Gaza war initiated by Hamas in October 2023, which escalated into a broader confrontation, seeing retaliatory attacks between Israel and Iranian-backed forces. Throughout these conflicts, Israel has taken significant military actions against Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, exhibiting the tense and volatile nature of Israeli-Iranian relations.

Highlighting the backing of US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu expressed confidence in achieving conclusive results against Iran, mentioning a "mighty blow" already dealt to Iranian ambitions since the Gaza conflict began. The cooperation between Israel and the Trump administration was reiterated with Netanyahu assuring continued collaboration and strategic alignment particularly concerning policies in Gaza, where a tenuous ceasefire currently holds.

The discussions also covered broader regional implications, including the dramatic shifts in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, and the transitional government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa. Rubio expressed cautious optimism about these developments but remained reserved about the potential for another destabilizing regime.

As the Middle East continues to navigate through these complex crises, the partnership between Israel and the United States appears staunchly resolute in confronting the challenges posed by Iran and ensuring regional security. This meeting not only reaffirms the strong bilateral relations but also illustrates the broader geopolitical dynamics influencing peace and stability across the Middle East.