Beirut, Mar 23: Benjamin Netanyahu said recent missile attacks by Iran show that Tehran poses a threat to the entire world, not just Israel.
Speaking during a visit to Arad, which was hit by Iranian missiles, he pointed to a reported long-range strike on Diego Garcia as proof that Iran can strike targets up to 4,000 kilometres away, potentially reaching deep into Europe.
Netanyahu accused Iran of deliberately targeting civilians, describing its missile attacks as attempts at “mass murder.”
Although no fatalities were reported in recent strikes, he said this was due to luck rather than intent.
He also highlighted attacks near key religious sites in Jerusalem, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque, Western Wall, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Missile fragments reportedly fell close to these sites during recent incidents, raising concerns about the risk to culturally and religiously significant locations.
He further claimed that Iran is attempting to disrupt global trade and energy routes, calling it a form of international “blackmail.”
Israel has long warned about Iran’s ballistic missile programme, arguing that weapons capable of carrying nuclear payloads could threaten not only Israel but also Europe and other regions.
Calling for broader international involvement, Netanyahu aligned with Donald Trump in urging other countries to take action against Iran.
He said the conflict is about global security, not just the interests of Israel or the United States, and added that more nations should join efforts to counter Tehran.
Netanyahu said Israel is responding “with great force” while avoiding civilian targets.
He outlined key military objectives, including dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes and reducing its capacity to produce related components.
He also expressed hope for internal political change in Iran.
The missile strike on Arad injured 115 people, including nine seriously, highlighting the growing human toll as the conflict intensifies and expands in scope.