US and Israel Launch Joint Strikes Against Iran, Netanyahu Declares Aim to Eliminate ‘Existential Threat’
By [Your Name], International Editor
TEHRAN, Iran – The United States and Israel have initiated joint military strikes targeting Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Wednesday, February 28, 2026. Dubbed “Operation Lion’s Roar,” the campaign aims to neutralize what Netanyahu described as an “existential threat” posed by the Iranian government.
In a televised address, Netanyahu stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are currently targeting facilities belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and Basij forces, alongside US military strikes on ballistic missile sites. He indicated the operation would continue “as long as necessary.”
“For 47 years, the evil regime in Iran has called for death to Israel and death to America,” Netanyahu said. He further accused the Iranian government of oppressing its own citizens, fostering regional instability, and supporting a “vast global terror network.”
The strikes come amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and its alleged support for militant groups across the Middle East. Netanyahu claimed Iran has been actively rebuilding its nuclear and missile capabilities, attempting to conceal them underground. He also criticized ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US as “futile and deceptive.”
The Israeli Prime Minister specifically thanked US President Donald Trump for his “courageous leadership” and described him as Israel’s “greatest friend ever to sit in the White House.”
While details regarding the extent and specific targets of the strikes remain limited, images circulating online, including an Associated Press photo released Wednesday, show smoke rising in the Iranian capital, Tehran.
Netanyahu extended a message to the Iranian people, stating they are “not our enemies,” and blaming the Ayatollah regime for their suffering. He encouraged members of the Iranian military to lay down their arms, promising safety and a secure future.
“This is your opportunity to establish a new and free Iran,” Netanyahu urged, suggesting a potential for collaboration between Israel and a future, reformed Iran.
The announcement of “Operation Lion’s Roar” follows previous Israeli military action against Iran, referred to as “Operation Rising Lion,” which Netanyahu indicated was a precursor to the current campaign. He suggested the recent strikes are “far more powerful” than their predecessors.
The situation remains fluid, and the international community is closely monitoring developments. The potential for escalation and the humanitarian impact of the strikes are significant concerns.
Tweet from Government Press Office of Israel
