Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that a joint military operation with the United States was launched to eliminate what he described as an “existential threat” posed by Iran, as the strikes unfolded.

In a video statement released during the operation, Netanyahu characterized the action as a coordinated campaign between Israel and Washington aimed at confronting the Iranian government, which he labeled a “murderous regime.”

“The joint campaign will allow the Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands,” Netanyahu said, suggesting that the military action could create an opportunity for political change inside Iran.

He said the time had come for “all segments of the Iranian people” to remove what he called “the yoke of tyranny” imposed by their rulers and to bring about “a free and peace-loving Iran.”

Netanyahu reiterated that Iran must never be permitted to obtain nuclear weapons, arguing that preventing Tehran from acquiring such capabilities was central to Israel’s security.

“The murderous regime of Iran must not be allowed to gain nuclear arms,” he said, framing the operation as a necessary step to neutralize a direct and long-term threat.