Netanyahu Affirms Strikes “Wherever They Are” and Warns of Israel’s Isolation

JERUSALEM, Sept. 15 - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alongside U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, vowed today that Israel will target Hamas “wherever they are” and cautioned that Israel must brace for international isolation as its Gaza offensive intensifies.

Why it matters: The high-profile meeting and press conference in Jerusalem underscore Washington’s steadfast backing of Israel even as an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha condemns last week’s Israeli airstrike on Hamas leaders in Qatar. Netanyahu’s comments highlight Israel’s resolve to press its military objectives despite growing global censure.

U.S. Support Pledged Amid Diplomatic Firestorm

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Jerusalem to reaffirm “unwavering support” for Israel in its fight against terrorism, stressing that Hamas “must cease to exist” before any lasting peace can be achieved. Rubio’s visit, coming ahead of a planned stop in Qatar, aims to contain regional tensions and preserve Doha’s role as a mediator.

Defense of Doha Strike and Further Action

Netanyahu defended Israel’s independent September 9 strike on senior Hamas figures in Doha as “legitimate” self-defense, accepting full responsibility and rejecting accusations of illegality. He refused to rule out additional operations against Hamas leadership abroad, declaring that “terrorists should not have immunity, regardless of their location.”

Warning of Prolonged Isolation

At a separate economic forum today, Netanyahu admitted that Israel faces a “kind of isolation” that could last years due to its Gaza campaign. He urged bolstering domestic arms production and economic self-reliance to withstand potential sanctions and trade restrictions. The prime minister blamed global backlash partly on “extreme Islamist agendas” influencing European policies.

• Arab and Islamic leaders convened in Doha to denounce Israel’s strike and press for an immediate ceasefire, hostage releases and a halt to the Gaza offensive.
• Israel continues its planned ground operation in Gaza City, issuing evacuation orders to civilians while maintaining pressure on Hamas strongholds.
• Some 48 hostages remain in Hamas custody, with Israel insisting that their release is tied to the complete dismantling of Hamas’s military capabilities.

Netanyahu’s assertive stance reflects his government’s unwavering pursuit of military objectives in Gaza, even as international bodies call for restraint and humanitarian pauses.