Jerusalem (National Times): As tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a direct appeal to the citizens of Iran, calling on them to stand up against what he described as the “oppressive and murderous Islamic regime.”
In a televised address delivered late Thursday, following a wave of missile strikes from Iran, Netanyahu stated, “Our struggle is not with the Iranian people. It is with the brutal regime that has held you hostage for decades and brought nothing but poverty and repression.”
He went further, urging Iranians to embrace their national identity and legacy. “This is your moment. Unite under your flag and reclaim your freedom. Let the voice of the people echo louder than the tyranny of the regime.”
Netanyahu also confirmed that Israel is in the midst of a large-scale military campaign, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, which aims to eliminate what he called a “direct nuclear and missile threat” posed by Iran. “The Islamic regime that has held power for nearly 50 years is now threatening the very existence of Israel,” he said.
Iran Responds with Missile Barrage
In a swift response, Iran launched a second round of retaliatory missile strikes, causing significant damage and injuries in Tel Aviv. According to reports, at least 78 people were killed in Friday morning’s earlier attacks. The latest strikes triggered air raid sirens across major Israeli cities and thick plumes of smoke were seen rising above Tel Aviv’s skyline.
Explosions were also reported in Tehran as Iran activated its air defense systems. According to AFP correspondents on the ground, loud booms were heard across the capital late Friday night, suggesting heightened military engagement.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that “dozens of strategic targets” inside Israel were struck.
Trump Weighs In: Warns Iran of “Even More Brutal” Consequences
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also responded to the developments, calling for an urgent resolution between Iran and Washington. Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump warned that Iran should swiftly come to the negotiating table or risk facing “even more brutal” consequences.
“There has already been great death and destruction. But future planned attacks will be far worse unless this slaughter comes to an end. There is still time to stop it,” Trump wrote.
The situation remains volatile as both nations brace for what could become a broader and more devastating conflict in the region. Observers fear further escalation could draw in more regional powers and potentially destabilize the Middle East even further.
