Trump approved Iran operation ‘after Netanyahu argued for joint killing of Khamenei’

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

Iran developed a vast network of street cameras for internal surveillance and control of dissent. According to the article, Israel repurposed this camera network, turning it into a targeting tool. The article suggests this surveillance system played a role in the killing of Iran's supreme leader. The article, originating from Tel Aviv, highlights the increasing use of surveillance systems for purposes beyond their original intent. The Associated Press reported this information with updates through the current day.

In 2026, an Associated Press report revealed that Israel utilized Iran's own hacked street camera network to track and assassinate Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28th. The article highlights the increasing vulnerability of global surveillance systems, many of which are internet-connected and poorly secured. Advances in artificial intelligence enable the sifting of vast amounts of footage, making these systems attractive targets for adversaries. Cybersecurity experts have warned for years about the potential for street cameras to be hacked. The incident underscores the potential for hacked surveillance systems to be weaponized in wartime.

U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke on Sunday regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically focusing on the blocked Strait of Hormuz. The leaders agreed that reopening the strait, a vital route for global oil supply, was essential for global energy market stability. The Strait has been blocked by Iran since coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian targets on February 28, triggering a broader regional war. Trump had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on March 21 demanding the strait's reopening, threatening further action if it was not met. The conversation signals a potential improvement in relations between Trump and Starmer, who previously disagreed on the use of UK military bases in the conflict.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged support for potential US strikes on Iran's power grid if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking from the site of an Iranian strike in Arad, Netanyahu emphasized US-Israeli cooperation, stating actions would be taken "together, and as far as possible, in confidence." He also called on world leaders to join the effort against Iran. The article reports that joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran have already resulted in over 1,500 deaths and thousands of injuries. The context suggests escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and Israel. Recently, Iranian missiles struck two communities in southern Israel, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in Dimona and Arad. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the international community to join the US and Israel against Iran. Israel has also targeted infrastructure in Lebanon, destroying a bridge over the Litani River amidst renewed conflict with Hezbollah. Amidst these events, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz.

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, Iran has threatened to retaliate against any US attack on its energy sites by targeting critical infrastructure throughout the region. This warning came after Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, or face strikes on its power plants. Iran claims the strait is open to all except vessels linked to its enemies. Recent Iranian missile strikes on Israeli cities and retaliatory threats from Israel to strike Tehran further heighten tensions. The conflict, ongoing since late February, has already resulted in thousands of casualties and drawn in other regional actors, such as Lebanon.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

On Saturday, an Iranian missile struck Dimona, an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility, while a second missile hit Arad. The Israeli military confirmed a direct hit on a building in Dimona, despite the use of air defense interceptors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against Iran following what he described as a "very difficult evening," referencing the missile strikes that wounded scores of people. Iranian state television claimed the missile attack on Dimona was a retaliatory response to an earlier strike on Iran's nuclear site at Natanz. The extent of the damage in Dimona included a large crater, rubble, and damaged surrounding buildings.

The US-Israeli war against Iran, ongoing for three weeks, is currently characterized by mixed messages and uncertainty. Despite President Trump's claims that the war is "very complete" and "winding down," the US is deploying additional ground forces and continuing airstrikes on Iranian targets. While Trump insists opening the Strait of Hormuz is a "simple military maneuver," only Iranian-approved ships are passing through. Trump threatened to target Iranian power plants if Hormuz isn't fully opened within 48 hours. His stated objectives for the war include degrading Iran's military, defense infrastructure, and nuclear program, as well as protecting US allies. Notably absent from his objectives is securing the Strait of Hormuz, which he believes should be the responsibility of other nations. Also absent are previous demands for Iranian regime change or "unconditional surrender."

The article discusses the international response to a war initiated by Donald Trump and Israel against Iran. It argues that Trump's actions have backfired, failing to garner support from allies and instead pushing them towards new alliances. Specifically, the Financial Times reported that allies rejected Trump's request for warships to open the Strait of Hormuz. The article suggests that Trump's approach, contrasting with advice from books like "How to Win Friends and Influence People," has alienated leaders and created incentives for major powers like China and Japan to unite against a potential global crisis. The war has strained US relations with these countries, particularly impacting Japan's relationship with both the US and China, as evidenced by the events surrounding Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to Washington.

According to Iran's IRGC, spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naini was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes. The IRGC announced Naini's death on Friday, stating he was killed in a "criminal cowardly terrorist attack." This comes amid escalating attacks and assassinations of senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in late February. Naini's death occurred shortly after he affirmed Iran's continued missile production capabilities on national television. The Israeli army reported carrying out strikes across eastern Tehran as Iran marks the Persian New Year. The recent events have created a somber atmosphere in Tehran.

Following an Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran has warned it will show "zero restraint" if its energy infrastructure is targeted again. This statement comes after Iran retaliated with a strike on Qatar, which reportedly impacted almost 20% of Qatar's liquefied natural gas export capacity. According to an Iranian official, the retaliatory strike employed only a fraction of Iran's power, and restraint was shown only due to requests for de-escalation. The official stated that any future attacks on Iranian infrastructure will be met without restraint. The news also highlights a forecast predicting record-breaking temperatures in numerous cities by the end of the week.

Amid escalating tensions, a fire broke out at Kuwait's Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery on Friday following a drone attack, a day after Qatar's Ras Laffan facility was hit. These incidents occurred after Iran vowed retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field on Wednesday. Despite calls from European leaders to cease targeting Gulf energy infrastructure, Iran has continued its strikes and asserted its missile production remains unaffected. The escalating damage to Gulf infrastructure has caused a spike in oil and gas prices, raising concerns about potential long-term disruptions to global supplies. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Iran's missile manufacturing capabilities are diminished, Iran maintains otherwise.

In a written Nowruz message broadcast on Iranian television, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that Iran's enemies are being "defeated" despite ongoing attacks from the US and Israel. Khamenei praised the Iranian people's resilience and declared the new year as one of "resistance economy under national unity and national security." He claimed that the unity among Iranians, despite their differences, has led to the enemy's defeat. Khamenei, who assumed leadership after his father's assassination in February, asserted that the US and Israel miscalculated by believing attacks would lead to the government's overthrow. He added that the enemy's plan to dominate and dismember Iran has failed, resulting in a "fracture" within their ranks.

As the US-Israeli war on Iran escalates in March 2026, Gulf countries are increasingly targeted by Iranian strikes, including drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. While Gulf states maintain their defenses are sufficient, they also have military partnerships that could provide assistance. Qatar hosts the largest US military base in the region, Al Udeid, serving as the forward headquarters for US Central Command. Qatar is also the second-largest Foreign Military Sales partner to the US, having recently purchased missile systems, early warning systems, and attack helicopters. In September 2025, Israel struck a residential area in Qatar's capital, Doha, targeting Hamas leaders. The US has reaffirmed its support for Qatar, stating that an attack on its territory would be viewed as an attack on the US.

In a press conference on March 20, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed both Israeli citizens and international media regarding the ongoing war with Iran. Netanyahu stated that substantial advancements had been achieved in the first 20 days of the conflict. While acknowledging these gains, he also suggested that further military action is anticipated. Al Jazeera's Rob McBride analyzed Netanyahu's statements, highlighting the Prime Minister's assertion that a "ground component" is necessary for the war effort. The purpose of the address was to update the public and international community on the progress and future direction of the war.

President Trump stated he is considering "winding down" US military operations against Iran, three weeks into the conflict. He indicated the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage, would need to be policed by other nations, not the United States. Trump listed objectives for the war, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, destroying its military capabilities, and protecting Gulf allies. Despite the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the deployment of additional Marines to the Middle East, Trump signaled a potential end to the conflict. His statement marks the strongest indication yet of a possible de-escalation of US military involvement in the region.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured US support for strikes against Iran, a long-sought goal. The attacks have resulted in significant casualties in Iran and Lebanon, with regional spillover effects. The conflict has triggered economic consequences, including rising oil prices, and political divisions within the US and between the US and its allies. Despite these global repercussions, the article suggests the war could benefit Netanyahu by addressing his long-standing concerns about the Iranian threat. Netanyahu has consistently portrayed Iran as an existential threat to Israel, and this conflict allows him to confront it with US backing, something he has sought for years. The ultimate outcome of the war remains uncertain.

The article reports on escalating tensions in the Middle East and their global impact. Donald Trump threatened to destroy the South Pars gas field, shared by Iran and Qatar, if Iran retaliates against Qatar's LNG facilities. Trump stated the US was unaware of Israel's prior attack on the field and warned against further Iranian aggression towards Qatar. The conflict is impacting global markets, with concerns of stagflation unsettling investors, particularly in Asia. Cathay Pacific has suspended flights to and from Dubai until the end of April due to the ongoing crisis. Additionally, a ship was attacked off the coast of the UAE near the Strait of Hormuz, further highlighting the instability in the region.

Donald Trump has distanced the US from an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield in Bushehr province. Trump stated the US had "nothing to do" with the attack, which was followed by Iranian threats to strike energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Qatar's LNG export facility and UAE gas/oil facilities were subsequently damaged in missile attacks. Trump promised no further Israeli attacks on South Pars if Iran refrains from attacking Qatar, threatening massive retaliation against the gasfield if Iran does attack Qatar. Trump denied US knowledge of the Israeli plan, despite reports that he had approved it.

In a news conference on March 20, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles following 20 days of US-Israeli air strikes. He stated that the strikes are decimating Iran's missile and drone arsenal by destroying factories producing components for missiles and nuclear weapons. The US and Israel launched the air attacks on February 28 after mediated talks regarding Iran's nuclear program collapsed. Iran has retaliated by firing missiles at Israel and other Gulf countries and limiting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Netanyahu noted that it is too soon to determine if the conflict will lead to the overthrow of the Iranian government.

QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi reports that Iranian attacks have damaged Qatar's LNG infrastructure, eliminating 17% of its LNG export capacity. The attacks, occurring this week, damaged two LNG trains and a gas-to-liquids facility. Repairs are expected to take three to five years, resulting in a loss of 12.8 million tonnes of LNG production annually and an estimated $20 billion in lost revenue. The attacks followed Israeli military action and broader tensions, including Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz. QatarEnergy may need to declare force majeure on long-term contracts due to the damage. The strikes have been condemned by Arab Gulf neighbors as a violation of international law.

The South China Morning Post reports that escalating conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran is threatening global energy infrastructure and causing oil price volatility. Recent events include strikes on Iran's South Pars natural gas field and retaliation against Qatar's LNG facility, alongside threats to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy waterway, is reportedly closed. As a result, international oil prices have surged, with Brent futures reaching between $113 and $115. US officials warn of potential economic hardship for consumers due to rising oil prices. The article examines these developments and their potential impact on the global economy.

Qatar has accused Iran of attacking its natural gas facilities, following a strike on Iran's primary natural gas source the previous day. These incidents have heightened concerns about the stability of energy supplies in the region. As a result of this uncertainty surrounding the war's impact, the price of oil has risen sharply, reaching $114 a barrel. The attacks on energy infrastructure in both Qatar and Iran are contributing to increased volatility in global oil markets. The situation is being closely monitored for further developments and potential disruptions to energy production and distribution.

In March 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer possesses the ability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles. The statement was made nearly three weeks into the US-Israeli war. Netanyahu also claimed that Israel is actively working to create divisions within Iran's leadership. The context of the statement is the ongoing US-Israeli war, although the specific reasons for making the claim at this time were not detailed in the article. The location of these alleged actions and capabilities is within Iran.

In March 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the United States was achieving its goals regarding Iran, despite recent attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region. These attacks, attributed to Iran, targeted Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility, as well as energy sites in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The strikes caused a surge in oil prices, exceeding $100 per barrel. Hegseth's statement came amidst escalating tensions and followed the reported Iranian attacks on key Gulf energy facilities. The Defense Secretary's insistence on meeting objectives suggests a continued U.S. strategy despite the increased volatility in the region.

According to Israeli national security sources, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is not effectively controlling the regime. Since his father's death in late February, Mojtaba has not made any public appearances, with some reports claiming he was injured in the strike that killed his father. Despite Iranian officials' claims of good health, sources suggest Mojtaba is an "empty entity" and the Iranian leadership is "broken" and "misfunctioning." A message attributed to Mojtaba was broadcast on Iranian state TV, vowing revenge for recent Israeli strikes that have killed several senior Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. These strikes are part of what the IDF describes as a continuing and successful effort.

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating following a reported Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gas field, an action allegedly coordinated with the US. Iran confirmed the death of its intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, and threatened retaliation against Gulf energy facilities. The UAE and Qatar condemned the attack on the gas field. Simultaneously, fighting has intensified between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Despite earlier claims of closure, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, with numerous tankers traversing the waterway since the start of the conflict.

Following an alleged Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield, Iran has threatened to retaliate by striking energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. Iranian authorities, via Tasnim news agency, identified specific targets including refineries and petrochemical complexes. The alleged Israeli strike reportedly damaged facilities at the South Pars field, the world's largest gasfield, located off Iran's coast. This escalation follows ongoing strikes by Israel and the US on Iranian targets since February 28, and retaliatory attacks by Iran in the Middle East, raising concerns about the conflict's impact on global energy markets. Qatar's foreign ministry has condemned the attack on the gasfield.

Iran's Pars gas field, a major energy infrastructure site in the Gulf, was struck on Wednesday, marking the first reported attack on Iranian energy infrastructure during the US-Israeli war. The attack, allegedly carried out by Israel with US consent, caused a fire and prompted evacuations. In response, Iran threatened to retaliate with attacks on oil and gas targets throughout the Gulf region. The incident led to a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising approximately 5%, and a decline in stock markets. The Pars gas field is the Iranian portion of the world's largest natural gas deposit, shared with Qatar.

Oil prices surged after an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield, the world's largest, located off the coast of Bushehr province. Brent crude rose 5% to $108.66 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 2.5% to $98.65. The attack prompted Iran to threaten retaliatory strikes on energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and Qatar reported a fire at its Ras Laffan gas facility after an Iranian missile attack. Disruptions to Middle Eastern oil and gas exports, including halted shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, have led to estimated output cuts of 7-10 million barrels per day. Experts fear prolonged elevated prices could trigger global inflation.

Saudi Arabia is activating its Red Sea contingency plan, diverting oil tankers through the port of Yanbu to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows Iran's closure of the strait in response to recent military strikes, disrupting global energy markets. A China-bound VLCC, New Vista, recently loaded crude oil at Yanbu after avoiding the Strait of Hormuz due to safety concerns. Saudi Aramco is redirecting a larger share of crude flows through its East-West Pipeline to the Red Sea. While the Yanbu route is open to all buyers, China-bound cargoes are expected to be significant due to China's status as a major customer of Saudi Aramco. Analysts caution that the Red Sea route has limited capacity.

Despite ongoing conflict, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil. Approximately 90 ships, including oil tankers, have traversed the Strait of Hormuz since the war began. The Associated Press reported the activity on March 12, 2026, with images showing ships in the Strait of Hormuz and at the Mumbai Port in India. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil transport, remains a key route for Iranian exports despite the ongoing war. The continued oil exports suggest Iran's efforts to maintain its economy amidst conflict.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned an Iranian missile attack on the Ras Laffan Industrial City, a major gas facility, causing a fire and "extensive damage." The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted a response from civil defense teams, though QatarEnergy reported no casualties. This incident follows Iran's threat to target Gulf region oil and gas facilities, including Ras Laffan, in retaliation for alleged Israeli attacks on Iranian gasfields. Qatar considers the attack a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to its national security. The incident also follows Qatar's suspension of LNG production on March 2 after attacks on the Ras Laffan facility and a power plant in Mesaieed Industrial City.

Chinese experts are analyzing recent US and Israeli decapitation strikes in Iran and Venezuela to draw lessons applicable to potential military operations closer to home, specifically regarding Taiwan. Since February 28, 2026, the US and Israel have eliminated several high-ranking Iranian officials, including the supreme leader and military commanders, through targeted strikes. Despite these losses, Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks, demonstrating resilience unlike Venezuela's response to a similar US operation. Experts believe Iran's power structure and geographic conditions contribute to its ability to withstand leadership decapitation. One analyst suggests Beijing would view a decapitation strike on Taiwan as part of a larger amphibious landing operation, and that the US would likely need ground forces to achieve regime change in Iran, a factor Beijing would consider for any Taiwan operation.

On March 18, 2026, Iran confirmed the death of its national security chief, Ali Larijani, following an Israeli air strike. This comes less than three weeks after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Israel has vowed to "neutralize" the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Larijani, a close confidant of the late Ayatollah, played a key role in Iran's retaliatory actions during the ongoing war in the Middle East. The assassination occurred amidst rising tensions, with Iran threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the US criticizing allies for not assisting in escorting oil tankers.

Israel claims to have killed top Iranian security official Ali Larijani and Basij force head Gholamreza Soleimani in recent air strikes near Tehran. The Israeli Defense Minister stated the men were "eliminated" and the IDF described Larijani as the de-facto leader of Iran following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in earlier strikes. These events are part of an ongoing war that has spread across the Middle East, triggered by initial Israeli and US strikes on February 28th and subsequent Iranian retaliation. Iranian authorities have not yet confirmed the deaths, but social media accounts attributed to Larijani posted a message after the alleged strike. The conflict has caused oil prices to surge due to disruptions in Gulf state production and exports.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, and General Gholam Reza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force, were "eliminated" in a Tehran strike. Katz stated he was informed of the event by the Chief of Staff. The alleged killings follow a previous strike that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in February. Iranian state media acknowledged Larijani's existence through a published note, but there was no official comment from Tehran regarding Katz's statement. Larijani, a former parliamentary speaker and advisor, was a key figure in Iranian politics and nuclear strategy. Soleimani headed the Basij, a major Iranian paramilitary organization.

Ali Larijani, a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a top security official in Iran. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become a prominent figure in the Iranian government. He is now the face of the government, stepping into a leadership role after the death of the previous leader. Larijani's close relationship with Khamenei positions him as a key player in Iran's political landscape. His emergence signifies a potential shift in power dynamics within the country.

Ali Larijani is a top security official in Iran and a close confidant of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following Khamenei's death, Larijani has become the prominent face of the Iranian government. He is a key figure in Iranian politics and national security. The article highlights Larijani's rise to prominence after a significant event, positioning him as a central figure in the country's leadership. His close relationship with the former leader underscores his influence and importance within the Iranian political system.

Ali Larijani, a powerful and central figure in Iranian politics for decades, has been assassinated. The Iranian government confirmed the death of Larijani, who held the position of security chief, on March 17, 2026. This marks the highest-ranking Iranian official assassination since Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Larijani's death is a significant event due to his long-standing influence and high-level position within the Iranian government. The assassination occurred amidst ongoing tensions in the region, although the article does not specify the location.

As hopes for regime change in Iran fade, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a political test. Netanyahu, who has long positioned himself as Israel's defender against Iran, launched a direct war on the regime. Despite extravagant rhetoric about a "fateful campaign," the Iranian regime remains in place. Netanyahu now claims the war has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East in Israel's favor, even without regime change. Some interpret this as a sign Israel is preparing to end the war, amid concerns about rising oil prices. The war's outcome will likely impact Netanyahu's political standing, as his career is deeply tied to his stance against Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his desire to "create conditions" for regime change in Iran. He made this announcement during a press conference on March 13, 2026, his first since the start of the war two weeks prior. Netanyahu indicated that Israel's attacks on Iran are intended to contribute to this goal. The Prime Minister did not elaborate on the specific conditions he hoped to establish or the methods Israel would employ to achieve regime change. The press conference provided insight into Israel's strategic objectives regarding Iran amidst ongoing conflict.

In March 2026, despite political divisions, a large majority of the Israeli public supports the ongoing war with Iran. A poll by the Israel Democracy Institute indicated 93% of Jewish respondents back the attack. Opposition parties, excluding Palestinian parties, have largely united behind the war effort, halting motions of no confidence against the government. Attempts to protest the war have been met with police presence and right-wing counter-protesters, creating an atmosphere of intimidation. Activists highlight the similarity in public support for the war with Iran to the backing given to the war on Gaza following the October 7th attack.

In a news conference on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "stronger than ever" amidst its ongoing war with Iran, alongside the United States, which began on February 28. Netanyahu claimed the attacks have severely damaged Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects, killed top nuclear scientists, and inflicted damage on the IRGC and Basij forces. He asserted that the war has prevented Iran from moving its nuclear projects underground. Netanyahu also addressed Iranian protesters, expressing support while emphasizing their role in changing their government. He further stated that the war has enabled Israel to forge new alliances in the region, despite Iranian drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries.

In a recent press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following joint air strikes with the US. Netanyahu stated that Iran has suffered significant blows to its Revolutionary Guards Corps and Basij paramilitary force since the start of the war. He vowed continued attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon after they retaliated for Israel's killing of the previous Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. When questioned about potential actions against Mojtaba Khamenei and Hezbollah's chief, Netanyahu declined to provide specifics but suggested neither should feel secure. He described the new Supreme Leader as a "puppet of the Revolutionary Guards" who is unable to appear in public.

A key Israeli legal office has advised against pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time. The opinion comes in response to reported pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to consider a pardon. The office stated that a pardon would only be appropriate if Netanyahu resigns from his position, confesses to alleged crimes, or is formally convicted in court. Netanyahu is currently facing trial on corruption charges, which he denies. The legal office's stance effectively blocks any potential preemptive pardon, maintaining that due process must be followed before such action is considered.