JERUSALEM (CHATNEWSTV) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the people of Iran in a direct video message on Thursday, calling for solidarity and expressing hope for a free and peaceful future for the nation. His remarks follow a historical pattern: the last time Netanyahu directly addressed Iranians, it was shortly before an airstrike inside Iran.
“You must be furious imagining the new roads, schools, and hospitals that could have been built with the tens of billions of dollars your dictators wasted backing terrorists who lose over and over again,” Netanyahu said, referencing Iran’s financial support for militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Netanyahu criticized the Iranian regime for prioritizing foreign aggression over domestic welfare. He cited recent military setbacks by Iranian-backed groups, including the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, the decimation of Hezbollah’s leadership, and the destruction of Hamas in Gaza.
“The only thing Israel seeks is to defend our state. But in so doing, we’re defending civilization against barbarism,” he declared.
Netanyahu highlighted the Iranian regime’s fear of its own people, describing them as the key to a free and democratic future. “You know what this regime is truly terrified of? It’s terrified of you, the people of Iran. And one day, this will change. One day, Iran will be free,” he said.
The Israeli leader closed his speech with the Persian slogan “Zan, Zendegi, Azadi” (Women, Life, Freedom), expressing optimism for Iran’s future and peace across the Middle East.
“I know and I believe we will transform the Middle East into a beacon of prosperity, progress, and peace,” he said.
Netanyahu’s message comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, which have clashed indirectly through proxy forces in the region. Analysts have pointed out that Netanyahu’s prior direct message to Iranians coincided with a significant escalation—an airstrike inside Iran itself. The timing of this speech has fueled speculation about potential Israeli military actions.
Iranian officials have yet to respond to Netanyahu’s remarks.
Editor: Gabriel Ani