On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised his determination to “finish the job” against Iran, supported by US President Donald Trump. Speaking alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his inaugural visit to Israel, Netanyahu asserted that Israel had significantly weakened Iran’s influence over the past 16 months. He expressed confidence that, with Trump’s leadership, they could achieve their goals.
Rubio stated that preventing a nuclear Iran was imperative, highlighting the need to address Iran’s role in regional instability, including conflicts involving Hamas and Hezbollah. Recent US intelligence suggests Israel may target key Iranian nuclear facilities soon.
Netanyahu’s intentions to potentially engage militarily contrast with Trump’s preferences for a diplomatic peace deal with Tehran. They both share a strategy regarding Gaza; Netanyahu warned of dire consequences if hostages aren’t released, aligning with Trump’s controversial proposal to permanently relocate Palestinians from Gaza—a plan that has sparked protests.
Meanwhile, the US delivered military munitions to Israel, further affirming their alliance despite previous tensions with the Biden administration over arms sales. Following a fragile truce with Hamas, discussions on the next phase of the ceasefire are set to occur, with expectations to include the return of Israeli Defence Forces soldiers. Rubio, upon arriving in Israel, engaged in both diplomatic talks and cultural observances.