by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will not allow Iran to bring about a “second Holocaust,” vowing to continue military operations against the Islamic Republic after Israeli intelligence indicated Iran was on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons.
In an interview on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier, Netanyahu insisted the intelligence was “absolutely clear” that Iran was rapidly advancing its nuclear weapons program. “Never again is now, and we have to act now,” Netanyahu said, referencing the Holocaust. “We will not have a second Holocaust, a nuclear holocaust.”
The Israeli leader described himself as President Trump’s “partner” in defending against Iranian threats, even recalling a personal brush with death when a Hezbollah drone missile struck his Caesarea home last year. “They fired a missile into my bedroom window. They missed,” Netanyahu said, crediting reinforced glass and protective measures.
Israel launched preemptive strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, military installations, missile stockpiles, and key scientific personnel late last week. The strikes, Netanyahu said, were aimed at stopping what he called a “dual existential threat”: Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its buildup of ballistic missiles.
“Our intel shows they intend to give these nuclear weapons to their Houthi proxies and others. That’s nuclear terrorism on a global scale,” Netanyahu warned.
The operation came amid rising tensions and ahead of U.S.-Iran nuclear talks in Oman, which were subsequently cancelled. President Trump expressed hope that the strikes might bring Iran to the negotiating table, saying, “Israel and Iran will make a deal.”
Iran retaliated by firing missiles at Israeli cities. One devastating strike hit Bat Yam, killing six civilians–including children–and injuring dozens. Rescue teams continued searching for three missing individuals amid widespread destruction.
Touring the rubble in Bat Yam, Netanyahu expressed condolences and urged Israelis to heed Home Front Command instructions. “Those who listened and stayed in protected areas were saved. Those who did not–unfortunately, were harmed,” he said. “Iran will pay a very heavy price for the murder of civilians, women, and children–a deliberate act. We are on the path to victory.”
President Isaac Herzog, visiting the site with First Lady Michal Herzog, called Iran’s attack a “horrendous” assault on civilians of all backgrounds and urged G7 nations to support Israel. “We are defending not only Israel, but humanity itself, world peace,” Herzog said.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed that “life will be dark” for Israelis if attacks continue. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signaled willingness to de-escalate if Israel halts its offensive–remarks Netanyahu dismissed as “hogwash.”
Military experts note that while Israel’s strikes have dealt a severe blow to Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, hardened sites like the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant remain a challenge. Analysts suggest American heavy bombers may be required to neutralize such deeply buried facilities.
As the conflict intensifies, Netanyahu maintained Israel had no choice but to act. “I think we’ve set them back quite a bit. I think they were completely surprised. And, you know, surprise is a great element of success,” he said.
Bat Yam Mayor Tzvika Brot described the destruction as “unprecedented,” likening the scene to the aftermath of the Twin Towers attack. Sixty-one buildings were damaged, with several slated for demolition.
Rescue operations continue as Israel braces for potential further escalation, while officials warn that the stakes extend far beyond its borders.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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