Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in a video posted online on Sunday after Iranian state media and social media users circulated claims that he had been killed or injured.
The short clip, shared on Netanyahu’s Telegram account, shows him sitting at a café on the outskirts of Jerusalem, drinking coffee and speaking with an aide.
In the video, the aide asks about rumours circulating in Iran that the Israeli leader had died. Netanyahu responds with a play on the Hebrew slang use of the word “dead”, which can also mean being extremely fond of something.
“I’m crazy about coffee. You know what? I’m crazy about my people,” he says while reaching for a cup.
Reuters verified the video’s location by matching the café’s interior with earlier images of the site. The date was also confirmed through photos and videos shared by the café on Sunday showing Netanyahu’s visit.
The rumours about Netanyahu’s death spread online in Iran during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The war intensified after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on 28 February.
Since the start of the fighting, Netanyahu has made several visits to locations affected by Iranian missile attacks, including towns hit by strikes, a hospital, a port and military bases. However, most visits have been recorded by his office with limited access for independent media.
The Israeli leader rarely gives interviews to local media and has held few press briefings during the war. Last week he addressed journalists through a video-linked press conference, his first public briefing since the conflict began.
Emergency security restrictions remain in place across Israel, banning public gatherings and keeping many residents close to shelters and safe rooms. Schools are closed across much of the country.
FAQ
Why did Netanyahu release the video?
The video appeared after Iranian media and social media users circulated rumours claiming he had been killed or injured.
Where was the video recorded?
It was filmed at a café on the outskirts of Jerusalem and shared on Netanyahu’s Telegram account.
What did Netanyahu say in the video?
He joked about the rumours, saying he was “crazy about coffee” and “crazy about my people”.
What is the current situation in Israel?
Emergency restrictions remain in place across the country, with limits on gatherings and schools closed in many areas due to the conflict.
