Netanyahu and Rubio Unite Against Hamas Threat and Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss the eradication of Hamas and the prevention of a nuclear-capable Iran, coinciding with the 500-day mark since the October 7th attacks. The leaders reaffirmed their commitments to regional security and the safe release of hostages. As negotiations for a ceasefire progress, challenges remain regarding Hamas’ involvement in governance.
On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. This meeting coincided with the 500th day since the October 7th, 2023, attacks, a day marked by the release of three more hostages by Hamas. Rubio and Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of eradicating Hamas to establish lasting peace in the region, with Rubio declaring, “Hamas cannot continue as a military or government force. They must be eliminated. It must be eradicated.”
During their discussion, Netanyahu reiterated support for former President Donald Trump’s initiative to facilitate the migration of Gazans from the devastated region, underscoring that Hamas obstructs these efforts. He stated, “Everybody says this is the largest open-air prison in the world. Not because of us. And Hamas – with rifles, with gunfire – try to prevent them from leaving.”
Netanyahu and the Trump administration view Iran as a mutual threat, voicing consensus on the importance of preventing the Iranian regime from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu asserted, “Israel and America stand shoulder to shoulder in countering the threat of Iran.” Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, warned that a nuclear-armed Iran would trigger a regional arms race, emphasizing, “It’ll force every other country in that region to get a bomb, too.”
After several days of threats from Hamas regarding hostage releases, they relented and freed three hostages. President Trump commented on their health, noting, “Now, the good news is they look like they’re in pretty good shape.” Meanwhile, Trump affirmed his hands-off approach to Israel’s next steps regarding the hostages, stating, “You do whatever you want.”
Netanyahu has assured ongoing cooperation with the Trump administration to secure the hostages’ release, while also hinting at the seriousness of the situation. He warned, “Including when the gates of hell will be opened, as they surely will if all our hostages are not released, until the last one of them.”
Family members of the freed hostages expressed gratitude toward U.S. efforts. Jonathan Dekel-Chen, father of a released hostage, stated, “There is absolutely no way that the Trump administration will not see this through.” His wife Avital reflected on her relief, saying, “After 498 days in Hamas captivity, he is here, standing on his feet with a huge smile and joy in his heart.”
As the negotiations for a second ceasefire phase begin, challenges arise regarding Hamas’ involvement in the government. Witkoff remarked, “Phase Two contemplates an end to the war, but it also contemplates Hamas not being involved in the government and being gone from Gaza.” This dilemna remains unsolved as both parties have conflicting demands regarding the situation.
In marking the 500-day milestone since the tragic attacks, The Jerusalem Post published a banner headline, “500 Days,” acknowledging those still held hostage. It continues to be the hope of Israelis that all hostages will ultimately return home safely.
The recent meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored a unified stance against Hamas and Iran’s nuclear ambitions. With ongoing geopolitical challenges, both leaders are pursuing strategies to ensure regional stability and the safe return of hostages. Despite conflicting demands from Hamas, efforts for resolution continue, reflecting the profound concerns and hopes of both nations.
Original Source: cbn.com
