Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Iran is no longer the country it once was, following recent joint military operations with the United States. He indicated further surprises are in store, signaling a continued assertive stance against Tehran amid escalating regional tensions.
Speaking on Thursday, Netanyahu stated, “Iran is not what it used to be,” adding that Iranian forces had sustained “painful blows.” He affirmed Israel’s commitment to completing its mission to eliminate the Iranian threat and ensure Israeli security. “We want to complete the mission to eliminate the Iranian threat and ensure Israel’s security,” he said.
Netanyahu revealed that he has authorized numerous covert and overt operations aimed at restricting Iran’s capabilities, emphasizing that the greatest danger to Israel originates within Iran. He also claimed significant achievements that he believes will reshape the balance of power in the Middle East, positioning Israel as a regional and, in some respects, a global power.
The Prime Minister alleged that the Iranian regime had devised a plan to destroy Israel using ballistic missiles and pursue nuclear weapon development. He further asserted that key figures within the Iranian government, including Ali Khamenei and his son, have been effectively neutralized, with the latter unable to appear publicly.
In a direct appeal to the Iranian people, Netanyahu offered support, stating, “We stand with you, but it depends on you.” He continued, “We can create the conditions for change, but it is up to the people of Iran to seize to the streets.”
Netanyahu also issued a warning to the Lebanese government, threatening military action within Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah if Beirut does not comply. “I told the Lebanese government a few days ago: you are playing with fire if you continue to allow Hezbollah to operate, in violation of your commitment to disarm it,” he said. “It’s time for you to do that. And if you don’t, it’s clear that we will.”
The statements arrive as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its twelfth day, surpassing the length of last year’s confrontation. According to reports, Israel is preparing for a protracted conflict and urging its citizens to exercise patience. Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reportedly advised Israelis to “take a deep breath,” signaling that there is no set timeline for the war. This development underscores growing regional instability and the potential for a prolonged period of conflict.
Netanyahu also highlighted that Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of prominent Iranian scientists in the field of nuclear energy. He emphasized that the goal is to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs underground, and indicated that “strong blows” have been delivered to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and the Basij forces.
