Netanyahu Addresses ‘Brave People Of Iran’ Ahead Of Nowruz, Says ‘Light Will Triumph Over Darkness’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday issued a public message to the people of Iran ahead of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, while Israel continues its ongoing war with Iran. His remarks came amid swirling rumours about his health and death, even as he used the occasion to address Iranians directly with a message of hope and symbolism tied to the festive season.

Netanyahu Sends Message Ahead Of Chaharshanbe Suri And Nowruz

In a video message delivered in English and accompanied by Farsi subtitles, Netanyahu wished Iranians well as they prepare to celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri, the ancient Festival of Lights and Fire, which is observed ahead of Nowruz.

"To the brave people of Iran, I wish you, as I do every year a happy holiday season, beginning with the Festival of lights," said Netanyahu, referencing Chaharshanbe Suri, an ancient Iranian festival of light and fire celebrated Wednesday.

The Israeli leader specifically linked the festival's symbolism to broader themes of resilience and moral victory, framing the occasion as one that carries deep cultural and emotional meaning for the Iranian people.

"Light Will Triumph Over Darkness," Says Israeli PM

Netanyahu went on to highlight the spiritual and historical meaning of the festival, saying it reflects a longstanding belief among Iranians that goodness ultimately prevails.

"It signifies the age-old belief of the Iranian people that light will triumph over darkness, that good will triumph over evil," he said in English, with subtitles in Farsi.

The message appeared aimed at drawing a distinction between Iran's people and its ruling establishment, a line Netanyahu has often taken in past public addresses directed at Iranian citizens.

Nowruz Carries "Special Meaning" This Year

Referring to the current conflict between Israel and Iran, Netanyahu said this year's celebrations carry added significance. He described the upcoming Nowruz holiday as a moment that could represent renewal and a possible turning point.

"This year this holiday has special meaning... I take this opportunity to wish you a happy Nowruz -- a year of freedom. A new beginning of hope to all of you," he added, referring to the holiday that will be celebrated Friday.

His comments placed a political undertone on the festive greeting, with the phrase "a year of freedom" likely intended as a direct appeal to Iranians amid the regional escalation.

Message Comes As Israel Continues War With Iran

Netanyahu's Nowruz message came at a time when Israel is continuing its military campaign against Iran, making the greeting particularly notable in the context of the broader conflict. While the remarks were framed around cultural and seasonal greetings, they also carried a strategic political message aimed at the Iranian public.

The address has drawn attention not only because of its timing during wartime, but also because it surfaced amid rumours surrounding Netanyahu's death and health, which have circulated online in recent days. Despite those claims, the Israeli prime minister's video message appeared to directly counter such speculation as he spoke publicly and at length ahead of the Persian New Year.