On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was greeted with enthusiasm from locals during his visit to the site of a devastating Iranian missile strike in Bat Yam, a city south of Tel Aviv.
The crowd chanted “Bibi the King of Israel,” echoing a popular Jewish song that reflects their support.
Netanyahu examined the aftermath of the missile strike that hit an apartment building, resulting in nine deaths, including three children, and left several others injured.
In a statement translated from Hebrew, he expressed:
I’m here in Bat Yam with the IDF Homefront Command and Rescue Unit. Our hearts are with the families affected.
It’s crucial to follow the directives of the Homefront Command. Those who heeded the warnings and sought shelter were saved—tragically, not everyone did.
We are engaged in an existential struggle, which is now clear to all citizens of Israel. Imagine if Iran possessed atomic weapons capable of reaching our cities.
Consider the implications of Iran having 20,000 missiles. That poses a direct existential threat to Israel. Hence, we are launching a robust war of salvation against this dual threat. Our soldiers and pilots are actively engaged; Iran will face severe consequences for deliberately harming our citizens, including women and children. We will respond decisively.
For now, during this conflict, I urge all Israeli citizens to adhere to the Homefront Command’s instructions—they could save your life.
Take care of yourselves, and together, with divine assistance, we’ll emerge victorious.
While Israeli society is often divided regarding Netanyahu’s leadership, even his critics acknowledged his role in combating Iran and addressing threats from Hezbollah last summer and fall.
Most Iranian missiles are successfully intercepted; however, some have struck civilian areas in Israel.
