Sun Feb 16 13:04:46 UTC 2025: ## US and Israel Vow to Counter Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions and Regional Aggression
**Jerusalem, February 16, 2025** – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a joint statement today reaffirming their unwavering commitment to thwarting Iran’s nuclear program and curbing its destabilizing activities in the Middle East.
Following a meeting in Jerusalem, Mr. Netanyahu emphasized the strong US-Israel alliance, stating that both nations agree Iran must not possess nuclear weapons and its regional aggression must be rolled back. He highlighted Israel’s military actions over the past 16 months, claiming significant blows against Iranian interests, including weakening Hezbollah in Lebanon and targeting hundreds of Iranian-backed groups in Syria. Netanyahu asserted that any attempt by hostile forces to utilize Syria as a base against Israel would be met with a strong response.
Secretary Rubio echoed these sentiments, asserting that Iran is the root cause of instability and violence in the region. He specifically condemned Hamas, stating that its continued existence as a military or governing force is incompatible with peace.
Both leaders emphasized their close cooperation with President Donald Trump, highlighting a shared strategy regarding the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza, which has been in effect for two weeks following fifteen months of conflict. Netanyahu expressed confidence that with the continued support of President Trump, Israel will succeed in completely neutralizing the Iranian threat.
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