Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the Iranian regime an “existential threat” to Israel in a speech to the nation following coordinated airstrikes by Israel and the U.S. targeting Iranian sites.
“This murderous terror regime must not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons – something that could threaten all of humanity,” Netanyahu said. He suggested that the joint action would create the conditions for the “brave people of Iran to take hold of their own destiny.”
The speech took place as Israel placed the country under lockdown and sirens wailed in many areas, including Tel Aviv, amid a series of retaliatory strikes from Iran. Initial reports recorded at least one explosion in Tel Aviv, with no official information yet on casualties.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it had destroyed “hundreds” of Iranian military targets, including missile launchers in the western part of the country. The campaign, titled “Operation Roaring Lion,” aims to weaken Tehran's military capabilities and eliminate long-term threats to Israel.
According to sources, the plan had been prepared for months, and the timing of the attack was chosen while senior Iranian officials were meeting.
Meanwhile, the Iranian military claimed to have launched “dozens” of attack UAVs targeting Israel. These aircraft require several hours to reach their targets. In the past, the majority of UAVs were intercepted before entering Israeli airspace.
Iran is also believed to have targeted U.S. military assets in the region, including targets in Bahrain – where a missile reportedly hit a U.S. Navy base.
Netanyahu accused the Iranian leadership of seeking to “buy time” through negotiations while continuing to restore nuclear and missile capabilities. Israel has mobilized approximately 70,000 reservists.
The Israeli National Security Council warned of an increased risk of attacks against Jewish citizens and targets abroad.
The escalating tension marks a new turning point in the direct confrontation between Israel, the U.S., and Iran in the Middle East.
