'Stand up at the moment of truth': Netanyahu calls on Iranians to act
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (photo: Getty Images)
Iranians must rise up against the current regime on their own to restore friendly relations with Israel, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, cited by the BBC.
Call to break free from tyranny
In a video address, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel wants to help the Iranian people break free "from the yoke of tyranny."
He said it is the citizens of Iran who must take the decisive step to change the leadership in their country.
"I believe that if you stand up at the moment of truth, the day will not be far off when Israel and Iran return to being brave friends," the Israeli prime minister stressed.
Push for regime change
Israeli leaders have repeatedly expressed hopes that the current conflict in the region could act as a catalyst for political change in Tehran.
The video message was accompanied by symbolic footage showing people holding Israeli flags and historical Iranian flags featuring the Lion and Sun.
US-Israeli operation against Iran
On February 28, Israel and the United States launched operations against Iran, which also led to the elimination of the Islamic state's supreme leader Ali Khamenei.
US President Trump also announced a major strike on Iran if the conflict escalates further, warning of the potential "total destruction" of regime facilities should they threaten American interests.
Beyond military pressure, Washington is considering strategic moves in the region. Reports indicate President Trump has shown interest in placing military bases at key points in the Middle East to deter Tehran.
Moreover, sources say the United States is exploring control over a strategic island in the Strait of Hormuz to block Iranian oil and weapons supply routes.