Netanyahu vows to 'finish the job' against Iran with support from Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Sunday that, with the support of U.S. President Donald Trump, he is determined to "finish the job on Iran." This statement demonstrates Israel's firm stance on the issue, as well as its expectation of American support. This firm stance is a clear indication of Israel's commitment to addressing the perceived threat from Iran.

Netanyahu made the remarks during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is on his first official regional visit to Israel since taking office. The visit is viewed as significant support from the United States for its allies in the region. This visit underscores the strong alliance between the two countries.

Netanyahu said, "In the last 16 months, Israel has dealt heavy blows to Iran's terror axis. Under the strong leadership of President Trump... I have no doubt that we can and will finish the job." He emphasized that under Trump's leadership, Israel is confident in completing its established goals regarding Iran. Netanyahu's statement highlights the strategic alignment between Israel and the U.S. in countering Iranian influence.

Rubio emphasized that "there can never be a nuclear-armed Iran." He added, "It is important to constantly point out that whether you are talking about Hamas, or you are talking about Hezbollah, you are talking about violence in the West Bank, or you are talking about instability in Syria, or you are talking about any of the problems with the militias in Iraq, there is a common theme behind them – Iran." Rubio's remarks underscore the U.S. perspective on Iran's destabilizing role in the region.

“This has to be addressed,” Rubio added. U.S. intelligence agencies recently warned both the Biden and Trump administrations that Israel may attempt to attack key facilities of Iran's nuclear program this year. These intelligence assessments increase concerns about escalating conflict in the Middle East. The potential for escalation highlights the urgency of addressing the Iranian nuclear issue.

Meanwhile, the United States shipped a batch of heavy bombs to Israel. The Israeli Ministry of Defense said on Sunday that the munitions were shipped to Israel after the Trump administration lifted a freeze on the deliveries last month. The shipment of these arms further strengthens the military cooperation between the U.S. and Israel. This military cooperation is a key component of their strategic alliance.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that the MK-84 munitions "represent an important asset for the Air Force and the IDF, and further proof of the strong alliance between Israel and the United States." Katz thanked Trump and the U.S. government for their "unwavering support." Katz's statement emphasizes the strategic value of the munitions and the strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance.

The head of the Gaza Government Media Office, Salama Marouf, criticized the U.S. decision to ship heavy bombs to Israel. "The United States should have sent food, medicine, water, or shelter and building materials to the victims in the Gaza Strip, even out of humanitarian motives, but instead it provides the 'criminal occupation' with 1800 heavy MK bombs." Marouf's remarks expressed strong dissatisfaction with U.S. policy. His statement reflects the Palestinian perspective on U.S. aid and its impact on the region.

Prior to meeting with Netanyahu, Secretary of State Rubio attended Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's office said he will discuss the second phase of a ceasefire agreement with his political-security cabinet on Monday. An Israeli delegation will also travel to Cairo on Monday to discuss the first phase of the agreement. These diplomatic efforts aim to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the region.