Israel and Iran are at alarmingly high levels of tension, but the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a surprising remark that has drawn even more attention and backlash.
When Netanyahu abruptly turned the attention to his family’s hardships while standing outside a bombed hospital, it caused resentment at a time when many Israelis are grieving the growing conflict.
Netanyahu Makes A Remark Amid Hospital Strike
The controversy erupted after Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel, with one striking Soroka Hospital in Be’er Sheva. The strike damaged the hospital’s entrance and several departments, including the ophthalmology unit on the third floor. Netanyahu stood at the site and addressed the media, drawing a historical comparison by saying, “We are going through a Blitz,” referencing Britain’s resilience during WWII.
He then described the impact on his own family, revealing that his son Avner’s wedding faced a second delay due to the escalating conflict. He added that his wife, Sara, whom he called “a hero,” and his son’s fiancée endured great disappointment. “There are people who were killed, families who grieved loved ones, I appreciate that,” Netanyahu said.
“Each of us bears a personal cost, and my family has not been exempt.” However, many Israelis viewed his remarks as insensitive and out of touch, given the growing casualties.
Israel-Iran War Escalates With Global Attention
Israel responded to the escalating tensions by attacking Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran retaliated by launching more drones and missiles. In a direct attack on Iran’s Supreme Leader, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated, “The military has been instructed and knows that to achieve all of its goals, this man absolutely should not continue to exist.”
Meanwhile, global leaders continue to watch the situation closely. European officials urge Tehran to return to negotiations, while the White House announced that US President Donald Trump will decide within two weeks whether to intervene militarily in support of Israel.
Israel launched attacks last Friday, claiming that these strikes aim to stop Iran from building nuclear weapons, sparking the confrontation. However, Iran maintains that its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes.