Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded to Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes targeting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem by vowing further military action focused on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure.
In a national address, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel’s conflict is with the regime in Tehran, not with the Iranian people. He appealed directly to Iranian citizens, urging them to “rise up and make your voices heard.”
“Our goal is to eliminate the nuclear and missile threat coming from Iran. As we achieve this, we are also paving the way for your freedom,” said Netanyahu.
“We do not seek war with the Iranian people, but we will not hesitate to destroy the capabilities of a regime that threatens our existence.”
Netanyahu warned that additional targeted strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities are imminent, describing them as necessary to ensure regional security and prevent escalation.
Background: Escalation After Israeli Strike
Iran launched over 150 missiles toward Israel in its first wave of retaliation after an Israeli airstrike reportedly killed several senior commanders of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including General Hossein Salami, a top figure in the country’s nuclear program.
According to Israeli sources, at least seven locations in and around Tel Aviv were hit. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) later declared that the immediate threat had passed and allowed civilians to exit shelters.
Iranian Response: “A Grave Mistake”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the Israeli attack as “a grave mistake,” calling it an “unforgivable act” that would hasten Israel’s downfall.
“The Zionist regime has committed a reckless crime. The blood of our martyrs will not be spilled in vain,” Khamenei said in a post on X.
“With the help of God, the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic will deal a crushing blow to this evil enemy. Iran stands united against this aggression.”
Iran’s military leadership and citizens, Khamenei added, were fully prepared for continued confrontation.
Israeli Defense Minister: “A Red Line Was Crossed”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also issued a stern warning following Iran’s missile assault, accusing Tehran of “crossing a red line” by attacking densely populated urban centers.
“We will continue to defend Israeli citizens and ensure that the Ayatollah regime pays a heavy price for its criminal actions,” Katz stated.
This intensification of the Israel-Iran conflict comes amid rising regional instability and growing fears of broader warfare in the Middle East.
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