Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the site of a deadly attack in Bat Yam, where 13 people lost their lives, marking his first public appearance since hostilities with Iran began.
The visit is Netanyahu’s first public appearance after being absent for several days, raising concerns in international media about his absence at a crucial moment.
The prime minister had been making video announcements from an unidentified location up to this point.
Along with other top ministers, including Foreign Minister Israel Katz and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Netanyahu traveled to the site of the Iranian missile strike that destroyed the coastal city near Tel Aviv.
According to Israeli officials, the attack killed at least 13 people and injured many more. Rescue and recovery operations continued through Sunday as rescuers combed through the wreckage for survivors.
Iran has claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying they were self-defense actions in response to Israeli aggression against its nuclear and military facilities.
Only if Israel ceased its attacks would Tehran cease its retaliatory actions.
Netanyahu’s delayed arrival drew criticism from opposition leaders and social media users who accused him of being unleaderly during a national emergency.
International media outlets also reported on his absence, describing it as a period of “sheltering.”
In a brief speech at the site, Netanyahu condemned the Iranian strikes and promised a strong response.
“We will not remain silent in the face of animosity. “Israel would defend itself with all its strength,” he said.
