Netanyahu Announces US-Israel Air Dominance Over Iran in Strategic Military Campaign
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel and the United States have achieved near-total dominance over Iranian airspace as a result of a series of coordinated military strikes. In a video message shared on social media platform X, delivered in Hebrew, Netanyahu described the joint operations as a major strategic success, emphasizing the close coordination with Washington and the leadership of US President Donald Trump.
Operation Rising Lion: A Joint Effort to Counter Immediate Threats
Netanyahu detailed that the campaign, known as "Operation Rising Lion," was aimed at removing what he termed an immediate threat to Israel. He stated, "We achieved almost complete control over the skies of Tehran," highlighting the collaborative nature of the effort. The prime minister expressed gratitude to President Trump, saying, "I would like to thank my friend President Trump for the leadership he is showing," and noted that the operation was conducted with full understanding of the threat posed by Iran.
Context and Motivations Behind the Strikes
According to Netanyahu, the conflict stems from the October 7, 2023 attack, which he cited as a catalyst for Israel's broader regional strategy. He warned that Israel is confronting a serious and urgent threat from Iran, describing the regime as "extremely evil" and accusing it of plotting to destroy Israel with atomic bombs and tens of thousands of missiles. Netanyahu claimed that Iran's leadership, under Khamenei, had attempted to secure military capabilities by placing them in fortified underground facilities to make them immune to attacks.
He explained that the timing of the intervention was intended to prevent these plans and stop potential attacks on US and Israeli interests. "There was a danger that Iran would attack American targets in the region and Israel first," Netanyahu added, justifying the actions taken at what he called "the appointed time."
Results and Broader Implications of the Campaign
Highlighting the outcomes of the first week of the campaign, Netanyahu reported significant achievements: "In the first week, we eliminated the dictator Khamenei, we destroyed hundreds of ballistic missile launchers," which he said reduces the threat to Israel. He framed the offensive as part of Israel's transformation into a regional power post-October 7, stating, "We have turned Israel into a regional power. All of this requires courage, initiative and taking risks."
Netanyahu also addressed regional dynamics, warning the Lebanese government to enforce ceasefire agreements and disarm Hezbollah, cautioning of "disastrous consequences for Lebanon" if not complied with. He issued direct warnings to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), saying, "To the Revolutionary Guards operatives, you too are in our crosshairs," and offered clemency to those who lay down weapons.
Messages to Iranian Citizens and International Community
Speaking to Iranian citizens, Netanyahu described the conflict as a mission to liberate Iran from tyranny, urging them to take action: "To the Iranian people - we seek to liberate Iran. But at the end of the day, liberation from the yoke of tyranny will depend on you, the Iranian people." He expressed hope for future improved relations, predicting that Israel and Iran could return to being "brave friends" if change occurs.
Netanyahu criticized the United Nations for what he called double standards in handling regional conflicts, accusing it of condemning Israel unjustly while ignoring violence in Iran. He concluded by asserting that many countries now view Israel as a reliable partner, predicting broader regional cooperation and peace expansion. "Together we will continue to stand firm," he said, invoking a sense of unity and divine support for Israel's eternity.
