Tel Aviv [Israel], June 13: In a bold and dramatic escalation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of ‘Operation Rising Lion’, a preemptive military strike on Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile infrastructure, calling it a necessary step to eliminate what he described as an “existential threat” to Israel’s survival.
Just a day prior to the strike, Netanyahu visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem—Judaism’s holiest site—where he placed a handwritten note citing a Biblical verse: “A people that rises up as a lioness, and as a lion lifts himself up.”
Early Friday morning, Israel began what Netanyahu labeled a “very successful opening strike” targeting Iran’s main enrichment facility in Natanz, its top nuclear scientists, and key elements of its ballistic missile programme. The Prime Minister emphasized that the operation is ongoing and will continue “for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”
In a video message posted on social media, Netanyahu warned, “Iran has produced enough highly enriched uranium for nine atom bombs. Soon, their ballistic missiles could carry nuclear payloads, threatening millions.” He added that Iran is reportedly preparing to produce 10,000 ballistic missiles in the next three years.
Drawing a parallel to World War II, Netanyahu said, “Eighty years ago, the Jewish people were the victims of the Holocaust. Today, the Jewish state refuses to be a victim of a nuclear holocaust perpetrated by the Iranian regime. Never again is now.”
The Israeli leader also addressed the Iranian people directly, saying, “Our fight is not with you, but with the brutal dictatorship that has oppressed you for 46 years. The day of your liberation is near.”
Netanyahu also thanked former US President Donald Trump for his stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating, “President Trump made it clear: Iran cannot have a nuclear enrichment programme. Today, it is clear Iran was only buying time.”
The Prime Minister detailed that this military operation is not only about Israel’s safety but also about regional and global security. He accused Iran of spreading chaos through its proxies in Hezbollah, Hamas, Syria, and Yemen, and warned that Iran’s nuclear ambitions could one day threaten Europe and the US.
In closing, Netanyahu called for unity and resilience, declaring, “Today, Israel has shown it learned the lessons of history. When enemies vow to destroy you—believe them. And act first. Our generation stood its ground, acted in time, and secured our common future.”