Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stark warning, stating that the current military operation against Iran will be "much more powerful" than a previous "bruising 12-day war" launched in June. The United States and Israel initiated coordinated strikes on Iran on Saturday, targeting key leadership and military sites, which has plunged the Middle East into a fresh and escalating conflict.
Operation Lion's Roar Unveiled
In a recorded message released on Saturday morning, Netanyahu revealed that the joint campaign, named Operation Lion's Roar, aims to decisively end the threat posed by the Ayatollah regime. He emphasized that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are striking targets associated with the oppressive regime, including facilities of the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij, alongside US military actions against ballistic missile sites that threaten both Israeli and American forces.
Netanyahu's Full Statement in English
Netanyahu, speaking in Hebrew with an English transcript provided, addressed the citizens of Israel and detailed the rationale behind the operation. He accused Iran of calling for the death of Israel and America for 47 years, trampling on its own citizens, spreading terror globally, and investing heavily in nuclear weapons and missiles aimed at erasing Israel from the map.
He highlighted recent atrocities, stating, "We all saw how this tyrannical regime in Tehran carried out an unprecedented mass slaughter of its own citizens in Iran. It cold-bloodedly murdered thousands of children, adults, and the elderly. Tens of thousands were arrested, tortured, and humiliated."
Strategic Objectives and Risks
Netanyahu explained that the operation is necessary to prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear and missile capabilities underground, which would make them invulnerable. He warned that the risk of not acting is immeasurably greater, as it could lead to a nuclear-armed Iran with tens of thousands of ballistic missiles, posing an existential threat to Israel.
He acknowledged the costs involved, saying, "There will be costs, and perhaps even heavy costs. But I know the wonderful forces that lie within our people." He urged Israelis to follow Home Front Command instructions strictly, as these measures save lives.
Call to Iranian Citizens
In a direct appeal, Netanyahu addressed the citizens of Iran and the Iranian army, the Artesh, emphasizing that they are not enemies. He stated, "We have a common enemy, the murderous regime of the Ayatollahs that has taken over you through the oppressive forces of the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij."
He offered safety and a secure future to anyone who lays down their weapons, including regime forces, and encouraged Iranians to seize the opportunity to establish a new, free Iran. "Take your destiny into your own hands," he urged, adding that help has arrived from the forces of the free world.
US-Israel Cooperation and Leadership
Netanyahu expressed deep gratitude to President Donald Trump, the American people, and the US military, praising Trump as "one of Israel's greatest friends in the White House of all time" and a determined leader of the free world. He highlighted the full cooperation between the two nations in this campaign, which he believes will bring light to those aspiring for human freedom.
He also saluted the commanders and soldiers of the IDF, the Air Force, the Intelligence Directorate, the Mossad, and all security and rescue forces, assuring them that the entire nation stands behind them.
Historical and Prophetic References
Drawing on historical and religious symbolism, Netanyahu connected the operation to the upcoming holiday of Purim, which commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia. He quoted the prophet Amos, saying, "The lion has roared, who will not fear?" and affirmed, "In Operation Lion's Roar, we roar, Do not fear Israel, for are you not a young lion?"
He concluded with a message of unity and faith, stating that with God's help, Israel will ensure its eternity through this decisive action.
