A Message from the Bunker: Netanyahu Addresses Iran While Bombs Fall on Tehran

In a highly symbolic move, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a direct address to the citizens of Iran from the "Pit," the underground Air Force command center in Tel Aviv. Speaking on the occasion of Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, Netanyahu combined holiday greetings with a stern warning to the regime. He confirmed that within the last 24 hours, Israeli forces had eliminated two of the regime’s most senior "terrorist leaders," an apparent reference to Ali Larijani and the head of the Basij. The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel’s war is not with the people of Iran, but with the leadership that oppresses them.

Watching from the Skies

Surrounded by the Defense Minister and the Chief of Staff, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel has total visibility over the regime’s movements. "Israel is watching from above," he stated, adding that the ongoing air strikes against regime officials and infrastructure are intended to weaken the forces that prevent Iranian citizens from living in freedom. He claimed that the military is targeting activists and enforcers on the ground to allow the civilian population to celebrate their traditional holiday without the constant fear of regime crackdowns. The choice of the Air Force bunker as the backdrop for the speech served as a reminder of the precision and reach of the current Israeli air campaign.