Netanyahu wishes Iranians freedom in Nowruz message

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished the Iranian people a happy Nowruz in a video message on Thursday, calling for freedom from what he described as the oppression of the Islamic Republic.

"I would like to wish the Iranian people, and Persians everywhere, a happy Nowruz...I wish you freedom," Netanyahu said.

"Real freedom. Freedom from oppression..." he added.

Netanyahu said he wished for a year in which "the people of Iran can finally enjoy Iran's rich natural resources, those resources that have been so long denied to you by an oppressive regime."

He also called for "security" in spiritual, economic, and physical terms, as well as "friendship" with those who "have your best interests at heart, and that includes my country, Israel."

Netanyahu has frequently addressed the Iranian people in video messages, positioning himself as a supporter of Iranian opposition to the country’s leadership.

His message comes amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, as Israeli officials continue to push for stronger action against Iran's nuclear program.

Earlier this month, Israel's new military chief, Eyal Zamir, warned that 2025 would be focused on war with Iran and its allied groups across the region, underscoring the risk of escalation.