Netanyahu Declares Major Joint Military Campaign Against Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the launch of a significant joint military operation with the United States targeting Iran, stating it aims to be "much more powerful" than previous engagements. In a recorded Hebrew address released on Saturday morning, Netanyahu framed the campaign as a decisive move to end the threat posed by the Ayatollah regime.
Operation Lion's Roar: A Strategic Escalation
The operation, codenamed "Operation Lion's Roar," involves coordinated strikes by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the United States military. Targets include facilities of Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Basij forces, as well as ballistic missile sites that threaten both Israeli and American forces. Netanyahu emphasised that the campaign will continue "as long as necessary," marking a substantial escalation in regional tensions.
Netanyahu accused the Iranian regime of decades of hostility, citing its calls for the destruction of Israel and America, its suppression of domestic dissent, and its support for proxy terrorist groups across the Middle East. He specifically referenced last month's violent crackdown on Iranian citizens, which he described as an "unprecedented mass slaughter," to underscore the regime's "murderous nature."
A Call for Iranian Uprising
In a direct appeal to the Iranian people, Netanyahu distinguished between the populace and the ruling authorities. "You are not our enemies and we are not your enemies," he stated, identifying the Ayatollah regime as the common adversary. He urged Iranians from all ethnic backgrounds—including Persians, Kurds, Azeris, and others—to "take your destiny into your own hands" and establish a free Iran.
The Prime Minister offered assurances to those within regime forces who lay down their weapons, promising safety and a secure future. He expressed optimism that a liberated Iran could eventually join hands with Israel for regional security and prosperity.
US-Israel Alliance and Strategic Imperatives
Netanyahu highlighted the crucial role of American partnership, praising President Donald Trump as "one of Israel's greatest friends" and a determined leader of the free world. He warned that failure to act now would allow Iran to rebuild its nuclear and missile capabilities underground, rendering it invulnerable and posing an existential threat to Israel.
"The risk of not acting is immeasurably greater," Netanyahu asserted, framing the operation as a necessary preventive measure against a nuclear-armed Iran. He acknowledged that the campaign would involve costs and risks for Israel but called for national unity and adherence to security protocols.
Historical and Symbolic Resonance
Invoking the upcoming Jewish holiday of Purim, which commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia, Netanyahu drew parallels between historical and contemporary threats. He quoted the prophet Amos—"The lion has roared, who will not fear?"—to symbolise Israel's resolve in Operation Lion's Roar.
The Prime Minister concluded with tributes to Israeli security forces and expressions of national solidarity, emphasising that "an entire nation stands behind you." The statement sets the stage for a protracted and potentially transformative conflict in the Middle East, with profound implications for regional stability and international relations.
