Iran’s president rejects Netanyahu’s call for uprising

Wednesday 13 August 2025 - 16:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Iran’s president rejects Netanyahu’s call for uprising

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s call for Iranians to protest against their government over ongoing power and water shortages.

Netanyahu’s appeal to Iranians

In a video message on Tuesday, Netanyahu urged Iranians to “take risks for freedom” by rising against their government, citing the country’s persistent struggles with water and electricity shortages during periods of extreme heat. The Israeli leader also proposed sending Israeli water experts to Tehran, promising “cutting-edge technology and know-how” to address the crisis.

The remarks come just two months after a 12-day war between the two adversaries, marked by Israel’s large-scale strikes on Iranian military, nuclear sites, and residential areas.

Pezeshkian’s strong response

President Pezeshkian took to social media platform X to respond, accusing Netanyahu of hypocrisy. “The regime that deprived the people of Gaza of water and food wants to bring water to the people of Iran? What a mirage!” he wrote.

Pezeshkian’s statement referenced the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where United Nations agencies have warned of famine due to severe restrictions on aid imposed by Israel. International outrage has mounted as images of sick and malnourished Palestinian children circulate widely. Israel, however, has denied responsibility for the allegations.

Israel has been engaged in a deadly conflict with Hamas in Gaza since October 2023, intensifying its military operations in the territory.

Netanyahu’s history of targeting Iran

This is not the first time Netanyahu has made direct appeals to Iranians. The Israeli leader is known for producing videos addressing Iran, often criticizing its leadership and policies.