Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a direct appeal to the people of Iran on Friday, urging them to rise against their leadership, which he labeled as an “evil and oppressive regime.”
His message came in the wake of a sweeping Israeli military campaign that struck over 200 military and nuclear targets across Iran.
In a televised video address, Netanyahu said, “The time has come for the Iranian people to unite around its flag and its historic legacy, by standing up for your freedom from the evil and oppressive regime.” He described the ongoing offensive — dubbed Operation Rising Lion — as “one of the greatest military operations in history.”
According to the Israeli leader, the operation aims not only to neutralize military threats but also to “clear the path” for Iranian citizens to reclaim their freedom. “The regime does not know what hit them, or what will hit them. It has never been weaker,” he declared.
The Israeli strikes have reportedly killed high-ranking Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists, including figures overseeing Tehran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs.
As tensions escalated, Iran retaliated by launching about 100 drones and dozens of missiles at Israeli targets. Most were intercepted, but some penetrated Israeli airspace, causing injuries to at least seven civilians and inflicting damage in multiple cities.
Netanyahu remained defiant in the face of Iran’s threats, stating: “More is on the way… Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you.” He closed his message with a rallying cry to Iranians: “This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard.”
Tehran, in response, condemned Israel’s military campaign as “a declaration of war” and vowed to retaliate forcefully, warning that it would “open the gates of hell” on Israel.
What you should know
Israel’s airstrikes have intensified already soaring tensions in the Middle East. Netanyahu’s rare direct appeal to Iranians signals a shift toward not just a military campaign, but also an information war aimed at undermining Iran’s government from within.
With both nations now exchanging heavy firepower, the risk of full-scale regional conflict looms large.
