Iran Accuses Netanyahu of Pushing US into Another War to Avoid Prison
Istanbul (ANTARA) — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to drag the United States into another war with Tehran to avoid prison.
“Netanyahu is dragging America into another war so that he does not go to prison,” Araghchi wrote on social media platform X on Sunday, warning Washington against launching military action again.
Araghchi also accused the Israeli leader of disregarding the consequences of his actions for Israel and US President Donald Trump.
“Last time you wanted to ‘finish the job’, Iran emerged with greater strength. Want to try your luck once more? Go ahead. But be careful; we still have unfinished business too,” he added.
The statement came after Trump voiced his support for Netanyahu on Sunday ahead of Israel’s general election on 27 October. Trump praised their partnership in confronting Iran and warned that Washington might have to deal with the issue itself if Israeli voters chose another leader.
“If Israel has the wrong leader, meaning anyone other than Bibi, America will have to handle this job itself, and I have no intention of doing that,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, using his nickname for Netanyahu.
Netanyahu has led Israel’s current government since late 2022. His administration has been described as the most right-wing in Israel’s history.
He is also standing trial in Israel on several corruption charges, which could result in a prison sentence if he is found guilty. In addition, since 2024 he has been wanted by the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Israeli opposition parties have stepped up coordination to replace Netanyahu’s government through the election.
The United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on 28 February, prompting Tehran to retaliate with deadly attacks.
Although an April ceasefire and a framework agreement reached in June had raised hopes of easing the conflict, fighting resumed amid repeated interruptions to negotiations between Washington and Tehran.