Netanyahu Vows To "Finish The Job" Against Iran With Trump’s Support

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to "finish the job" against Iran, reaffirming his alignment with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Speaking alongside U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday, Netanyahu praised the strong backing of the Trump administration in countering Iranian influence.

"Over the last 16 months, Israel has delivered a mighty blow to Iran’s terror axis. Under the strong leadership of President Trump, I have no doubt that we can and will finish the job," Netanyahu declared.

Rubio, making his first official visit to the region as Secretary of State, echoed the sentiment. "There can never be a nuclear Iran," he asserted.

He further emphasized Iran's role in Middle East conflicts, saying, "Whether we talk about Hamas, Hezbollah, violence in the West Bank, destabilization in Syria, or militias in Iraq, there is one common denominator – Iran. That must be addressed."

Israel’s Military Plans and U.S. Concerns

U.S. intelligence agencies recently warned both the Biden and Trump administrations that Israel is likely planning to strike key Iranian nuclear facilities this year. Intelligence assessments suggest such strikes could escalate tensions and increase the risk of a broader war in the Middle East.

Despite Trump's preference for a diplomatic approach, reports indicate that Israel remains committed to a long-term goal of regime change in Iran.

Gaza Controversy and Trump's "Shocking" Proposal

Netanyahu also addressed the ongoing crisis in Gaza, stating that he and Trump share a common vision for the region’s future. He warned of severe retaliation if all Israeli hostages were not released.

Trump recently proposed a controversial plan for the U.S. to "take over" Gaza and permanently displace Palestinians—a suggestion that sparked international outrage.

Rubio defended the plan, saying, "It may have shocked many, but we cannot keep repeating the same cycle and ending up in the same place."

Netanyahu revealed that Israel was informed of the plan in advance. "This didn’t come as a surprise. We knew about it and discussed it beforehand," he said.

Addressing American Jewish leaders, Netanyahu described the proposal as "the only viable plan for a different future for Gaza, Israel, and the region."

Heavy Bomb Shipments Resume

Rubio’s visit coincided with the U.S. sending a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel after the Trump administration lifted a previous hold on the deliveries.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz welcomed the arrival of MK-84 munitions, calling them "a significant asset for the Air Force and IDF." He expressed gratitude to Trump and his administration for their "unwavering support."

This move reversed one of the few restrictions placed by the Biden administration, which had halted the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs over concerns they could be used in densely populated areas of Gaza.

The decision drew criticism from Palestinian officials. Salama Maroof, head of Gaza’s Government Media Office, condemned the U.S. move, stating, "Instead of sending food, medicine, or shelter to Gaza’s victims, the U.S.—which calls itself a champion of human rights—chooses to send 1,800 heavy MK bombs to support the occupation army."

Hostage Deal and Ceasefire Uncertainty

Rubio’s arrival in Tel Aviv came a day after Israel and Hamas completed a U.S.-mediated prisoner exchange. Three Israeli hostages were released, while Israel freed hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

However, the fragile ceasefire remains in jeopardy. On Sunday, Hamas accused Israel of violating the truce by carrying out an airstrike that killed three police officers in Gaza.

Monday also marked 500 days since hostages were taken on October 7. Their families and supporters staged a protest outside the U.S. embassy in Tel Aviv, urging Trump to push for their return.

As negotiations continue, Netanyahu’s office confirmed discussions on the second phase of the hostage deal would take place Monday. An Israeli delegation is also set to travel to Cairo for further talks.

Following a call with Netanyahu and mediators from Egypt and Qatar, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff told Fox News he was confident phase two of the ceasefire deal would proceed. This phase includes the release of 19 Israeli soldiers, whom the U.S. believes are still alive, along with other captives, including American citizen Edan Alexander.