Netanyahu Claims Major Success in Operations Against Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced during a press conference that ongoing airstrikes by Israel and the United States have significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities in both uranium enrichment and ballistic missile production.
In Jerusalem on March 19, Netanyahu expressed strong confidence in the joint US-Israeli efforts, asserting that they hold a crucial tactical advantage.
“We are winning and Iran is being destroyed,” stated Netanyahu. “What we’re dismantling now are the factories that produce parts for these missiles and the nuclear weapons they’re trying to develop.”
“Khamenei has ordered the renewal of these programs, burying them deep underground. We are acting to not only eliminate the few remaining missiles but also to dismantle the industries that support these endeavors. It’s been 20 days, and I can confidently say that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles,” he added.
The attacks targeting Iran’s nuclear program began in Tehran on February 28. The operation was termed “Operation Epic Fury” by the United States and “Operation Roaring Lion” by Israel. Just hours after the assault commenced, Iranian leader Ayatollah Khamenei was reported dead, alongside many officials from the Islamic regime.
On that same day, a video was released featuring President Trump warning Iranian citizens that while the conflict escalated, there would come a time when they would “take over” their government, emphasizing that it might be their only shot at freedom.
Looking towards the future, Netanyahu remarked that the task of reconstructing the country and shaping its political landscape is ultimately up to the Iranian populace.
“It’s really up to the Iranian people to decide when to stand up,” Netanyahu said.
The prime minister also addressed claims that he had coerced the United States into this conflict. “Does anyone actually believe someone could direct President Trump?” he questioned.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio later confirmed that the timing of the operation was influenced by an “imminent” Israeli attack that could provoke retaliation against U.S. interests.
Rubio indicated that U.S. intelligence assessed a strong likelihood of Iranian retaliation against American assets in the region. He stated that if the U.S. had delayed action, American casualties could have been significantly higher. Thus, a preemptive strike was executed in coordination with Israel to mitigate risks.
In a major address shortly after operations commenced, President Trump emphasized that the goal of the military actions was to “safeguard the American people by neutralizing imminent threats.” He echoed Rubio’s views, stating he sensed that Iran had intentions for a substantial attack on U.S. personnel and properties.
Netanyahu asserted that he and President Trump were aligned regarding the potential dangers posed by Iran, adding that other world leaders privately share his concerns.
“They say it in private discussions, but I’ll say it out loud: The world owes President Trump gratitude for spearheading this initiative to protect our future,” Netanyahu remarked.
The U.S. had been pursuing a diplomatic resolution through third-party mediation for months, but Iran consistently maintained that its uranium enrichment was for “civilian” purposes.
Yet, the facts paint a different picture. Regular nuclear power requires only 3% to 5% enrichment, and medical research might use around 20%. However, reports suggest that Iran has achieved enrichment levels nearing 60%. This is significant in nuclear physics because reaching this level means the most complex part of the process has been accomplished, making the leap to 90% enrichment (necessary for weapons-grade material) much more feasible.
