US President Donald Trump’s administration has pledged support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to tackle Iran’s nuclear threat, despite tensions between the two leaders over a proposed peace deal with Tehran.
Netanyahu vowed to “finish the job” against Iran, citing US backing under Trump. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this stance, saying that there could never be a nuclear-armed Iran. The US has also sent a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel, which Israel’s defense minister hailed as a significant asset for the Air Force.
However, the move has sparked criticism from Hamas, which accused the US of supporting the Israeli occupation army with arms. The fragile ceasefire in Gaza remains under threat, despite recent hostage releases facilitated by US mediation.
The escalating conflict raises concerns about a wider war in the Middle East. Israel’s willingness to use military force contradicts Trump’s desire for a peace deal with Iran, while the recent intelligence warnings suggest that major strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could lead to increased tensions. The Israeli government is also pursuing regime change in Iran, according to US intelligence reports.
Netanyahu and Rubio discussed strategy over Gaza and its future, vowing to release all hostages if the situation remains unchanged. Trump’s plan to take ownership of Gaza and move Palestinians out permanently has been met with widespread protests.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/16/middleeast/heavy-bombs-israel-rubio-visit-intl/index.html