ByJERUSALEM POST STAFF
Updated:

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the Iranian people to stand up to the Islamic Republic in an address on Friday evening. 

"Israel's fight is not against the Iranian people. Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you," Netanyahu said. 

"The time has come for the Iranian people to unite around its flag and its historic legacy, by standing up for your freedom from the evil and oppressive regime," he added. "This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard."

IAF dismantling Iran's nuclear program

Netanyahu's address came as Iran launched a retaliatory attack on Israel following Operation Rising Lion. 

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei looks on, in a televised message following the Israeli strikes in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei looks on, in a televised message following the Israeli strikes in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025. (credit: Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/WANA via REUTERS)

Since the start of the operation on Thursday, the IAF has struck key nuclear sites, including the Natanz and Isfahan nuclear plants, and killed senior Iranian military and IRGC officials.

The attack came as Tehran continued uranium enrichment in violation of international agreements.