Israelis Support Iran War Amid Netanyahu's Unfulfilled Victory Promises
In June 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proclaimed a decisive victory over Iran, claiming the destruction of its ballistic missiles and nuclear program. However, a new phase of conflict began on February 28 with joint US-Israel strikes that have lasted over 26 days, far exceeding the previous war's duration. Iran continues daily missile and drone attacks, resulting in civilian deaths and injuries, challenging Israel's air defense systems despite a 92% interception rate. Public support remains strong at 66%, according to polls, but experts warn of strategic ambiguities and the potential erosion of resilience. Netanyahu persists in declaring victory and commits to fighting until triumph, echoing patterns from prior conflicts. The war's indefinite nature and high costs raise questions about long-term sustainability and public endurance.
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Despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's repeated declarations of victory, the war with Iran has escalated and dragged on, with 66% of Israelis still supporting the conflict amid ongoing missile attacks and strategic uncertainties.
Background: June Victory Declaration
In June 2025, after a 12-day war with Iran, Netanyahu announced that Israel had eliminated Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program, calling it a victory that would "stand for decades." Satellite images from Maxar Technologies showed damage to Iran's Natanz Nuclear Facility following Israeli strikes.
Current Conflict: Epic Fury/Roaring Lion
On February 28, 2025, the US and Israel launched new strikes, code-named Epic Fury by the US and Roaring Lion by Israel. This conflict has now lasted over 26 days, more than twice as long as the June war, with no clear end in sight despite US President Donald Trump's mention of "productive" diplomatic talks.
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Iranian Attacks and Israeli Defense
Iran has launched over 350 ballistic missiles at Israel since February 28, forcing millions into shelters daily.
Attacks include missiles, drones, and rockets, causing civilian casualties; a missile hit Dimona near Israel's nuclear research center.
Israel's air defense systems, including Arrow 3 and David's Sling, report a 92% shoot-down rate, but Iranian cluster munitions—which disperse multiple bomblets—complicate interception efforts.
Recent strikes injured over 150 Israelis in one night and damaged properties in Tel Aviv, highlighting interception challenges.
Public Opinion and Resilience
A Channel 12 poll indicates 66% of Israelis support the war, including 55% of voters opposing Netanyahu.
After years of conflict starting from October 7, 2023, Israeli society shows adaptation to prolonged warfare, with measures like reduced flights and virtual classes implemented.
Public endurance remains high, though experts note potential limits as economic and social costs mount.
Strategic Doubts and Expert Analysis
Experts question the long-term viability of defending against cluster munitions and cite unclear war objectives.
Former security officials criticize Netanyahu for lacking strategic planning, referencing similar patterns in Gaza and Lebanon conflicts.
Shmuel Rosner observes that while suffering is tolerated, doubts about achievable goals are emerging.
Ofer Shelach argues Israeli resilience is intact, suggesting Iran's attrition strategy targets Gulf states more than Israel's home front.
Netanyahu's Stance
Netanyahu continues to declare victory, stating "We are winning, and Iran is decapitated," and vows to fight until triumph. He visited the Dimona strike site, reiterating his commitment despite the war's persistence.
