Israeli Leaders Unite Behind Operation Rising Lion to Neutralize Existential Threat

As Operation "Rising Lion" unfolded overnight, Israeli leaders from across the political spectrum stood united behind the IDF's bold and decisive action against Iran’s growing nuclear threat.

President Isaac Herzog delivered a clear message Friday morning, declaring: “Last night, Israel launched a targeted operation to neutralize an immediate and existential threat to our people.” Herzog emphasized that for decades, Iran has worked relentlessly to destabilize the region while building nuclear capabilities and expanding its ballistic missile arsenal. “Iran’s leaders have made no secret of their openly repeated intention to annihilate the State of Israel. For years, the regime has prepared to turn that vision into reality,” he stated.

Herzog reaffirmed Israel’s right and duty to defend itself: “Israel has the inherent right and the solemn duty to defend itself and will always do so with determination and clarity. We sincerely hope that this will change the trajectory of our region towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.”

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed Herzog’s words, calling the preemptive strike both necessary and just. “We are acting to eliminate an existential threat posed by the antisemitic Ayatollah regime, which openly calls for our destruction and is actively working toward that goal,” Smotrich said, praising the months of preparation by Israel’s security forces.

He urged Israeli citizens to show resilience in the coming days and follow Home Front Command guidelines, adding: “In the name of God we will act, and with God’s help we will succeed,” quoting the biblical verse from Numbers 24:9: “He crouched, he lay down like a lion; and like a lioness, who shall rouse him?”

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana expressed his unwavering support for the IDF’s mission. “At this very hour, the Israel Defense Forces and security forces are acting to ensure that generations to come will continue to live as a free people in our land,” Ohana stated. “On behalf of the Knesset, which represents all the citizens of Israel, I send them a message of strength and encouragement, and I pray for their safe, healthy, and complete return home.”

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid revealed that he had been briefed in advance through the proper security channels. His office released a statement of full support: “Lapid commends the security forces and expresses his support for their actions to safeguard the security of Israel's citizens.”

Democrats Chairman MK Yair Golan added his voice to the national consensus. “A strong nation, a determined army, and a resilient home front. That’s how we have always won, and that’s how we will win again today,” Golan wrote, encouraging all Israelis to stand firmly behind the IDF and follow safety instructions. “Civilian resilience on the home front is no less important than the strength at the front line.”

As Operation Rising Lion continues to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, Israel's leadership remains resolute, unified, and focused on the central mission: to secure the nation’s existence and protect its people from those who seek their destruction.

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