Netanyahu Defends US-Israel Military Campaign Against Iran as Defensive Measure
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday strongly defended the joint US-Israeli military campaign targeting Iran, describing it as a necessary defensive step to protect not only Israel and the United States but also the wider global community. In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu characterized the operation, known as "Operation Epic Fury" or "Roaring Lion," as a response to what he termed "theological thuggery" by Iran.
Netanyahu Accuses Iran of Decades of Aggression and Terror
Netanyahu outlined a history of alleged Iranian aggression, stating, "Iran for 47 years has been chanting death to America. They bombed your embassies. They tried to assassinate Donald Trump, the President of the United States, twice. They murdered their own people, they massacred so many. And they spread a worldwide web of terror." He emphasized that Iran's regime is committed to destroying the United States, making the military action imperative to safeguard humanity, America, Israel, and the free world.
He explained the urgency of the strikes, noting that after previous attacks on Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile sites, the country continued to build new underground bunkers to shield its programs. "If no action was taken now, no action could be taken in the future. And then they could target America. They could blackmail America. They could threaten us and threaten everyone in between," Netanyahu asserted, highlighting the need for immediate intervention.
Praise for Trump's Leadership and Decisive Action
Netanyahu praised former US President Donald Trump's leadership, calling him uniquely decisive and clear-headed. "There’s never been a President like Donald J. Trump," he said, recounting a meeting at Mar-a-Lago where Trump emphasized preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons as a threat to US security. Netanyahu credited Trump's resolve for enabling the joint campaign, stating, "Amazing things happen when we work together. This would not have happened without the leadership of President Trump."
He insisted that the military campaign is not intended to be prolonged, framing it as a pathway to peace. "This is not an endless war, this is a gateway to peace," Netanyahu added, arguing that the risks posed by Iran required swift and firm action.
US Officials Echo Support for the Strikes
US Vice-President JD Vance stated on Tuesday that Trump authorized the strikes to protect America's national security and ensure Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a video address to US forces, described the moment as a "generational turning point" and reiterated the administration's message of "peace through strength."
Meanwhile, Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Danny Danon, met with US First Lady Melania Trump ahead of a UN Security Council session, underscoring the firmness of the US-Israel alliance. Trump also criticized domestic political opponents on his social media platform, Truth Social, over their response to the strikes.
Escalating Regional Conflict and International Concerns
The latest escalation follows a major military offensive launched on Saturday, with US and Israeli forces conducting coordinated air and missile strikes across Iran. Targets included military installations, nuclear-linked facilities, and leadership compounds. In response, Iran launched ballistic missile and drone attacks on US assets and regional allies, such as Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, significantly widening the conflict.
As hostilities continue across West Asia, world leaders and international organizations are urging restraint amid fears of a broader regional war. However, fighting shows no immediate signs of abating, raising concerns about further destabilization in the area.
