Netanyahu: US and Israel Attack Iran to Eliminate Existential Threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued his first statement following his country’s attack on Iran on Saturday, 28 February local time. Netanyahu stated that the Israeli assault, conducted jointly with the United States, was launched to “eliminate an existential threat”.

In a video statement released after US President Donald Trump announced American strikes against Iran, Netanyahu thanked Trump for his “historic leadership”.

“Brothers and sisters, Israeli citizens, just moments ago, Israel and the United States launched an operation to eliminate the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran,” Netanyahu said in his statement.

“Our joint action will create conditions for the brave people of Iran to take control of their own destiny,” he added.

Netanyahu subsequently called for regime change in Tehran and urged the Iranian people to unite against their government.

“The time has come for all the people of Iran to break the chains of tyranny and realise a free and peaceful Iran,” the Israeli Prime Minister stated, addressing the Iranian public.

Netanyahu issued similar calls when Israel engaged in a 12-day conflict with Iran in June 2025.

Furthermore, Netanyahu emphasised that Iran must not be permitted to acquire nuclear weapons.

“This cruel terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity,” he asserted.

“Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure Israel’s endurance,” Netanyahu concluded.