Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Sunday that recent strikes had “severely damaged” Iran’s defense capabilities and missile production aimed at Israel, claiming the operation met all of Israel’s objectives. “The air force struck targets across Iran,” he said, marking his first public remarks on the mission.
Satellite images revealed significant damage to two undisclosed Iranian military bases. One site was reportedly linked to Iran’s nuclear weapon development, which Western intelligence and inspectors say was halted in 2003, while the other was tied to Iran’s ballistic missile program.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, responded, saying it was up to Iranian authorities to decide how best to show the nation’s strength and protect its interests against Israel. Khamenei holds ultimate authority over any response from Iran.
Later that day, Netanyahu faced criticism from the audience while delivering a speech at a memorial event for victims of last year’s Hamas attack on southern Israel. Protesters interrupted, shouting “Shame on you,” which forced Netanyahu to pause. Many Israelis hold him accountable for the attack’s failures and for not yet securing the release of remaining hostages.