The Digest:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has launched a blistering attack on Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, claiming he "cannot show his face in public" and describing him as "the puppet of the Revolutionary Guards." Speaking at his first news conference since the US-Israel attacks on Iran began, Netanyahu said Israel and the United States were "crushing" both the Iranian regime and Hezbollah. He addressed the Iranian people directly, stating, "The moment when you will be able to embark on a new path of freedom is approaching. We stand by you and help you, but at the end of the day it depends on you. It is in your hands." Netanyahu described President Trump as his "personal friend," adding they talk "almost every day" and make war decisions "together." Mojtaba Khamenei delivered his first public speech since assuming office earlier Thursday, but the address was read by a presenter with the leader not appearing personally. In the speech, he insisted Iran must continue targeting US military bases in the region and keep the Strait of Hormuz closed.
Key Points
- Netanyahu mocks new Iran leader as "puppet," claims he can't show face.
- Says US-Israel "crushing" the Iranian regime and Hezbollah.
- Calls Trump "personal friend," says they coordinate war decisions daily.
- Mojtaba Khamenei's first public speech was read by a presenter; he did not appear.
- Iran leader vows to keep targeting US bases, maintain Strait closure.
Sources: BBC News
