JERUSALEM, Sunday, March 15, 2026 (WNP): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the public in a video message on Sunday, mixing humor with urgent guidance as Israel continues military operations amid escalating regional tensions.

Opening his remarks with a light-hearted tone, Netanyahu referred to rumors circulating online about his alleged death, saying, “How are you? What are people saying online — that I’m dead?” The prime minister also joked about relying on coffee and compared it to the trust he places in the Israeli public, praising citizens for their “fantastic” conduct during the crisis.

In another moment of levity, Netanyahu joked about counting fingers, telling viewers: “Do you want to count the number of fingers? Can you show us?” before raising a symbolic toast to life and encouraging the public to remain resilient during the ongoing security situation.

Turning to more serious matters, Netanyahu urged citizens to strictly follow safety guidelines issued by the Israel Home Front Command, particularly when leaving homes or evacuating during missile alerts. He advised residents to remain close to protective shelters and emphasized that compliance with official instructions was critical for public safety.

The prime minister praised the discipline and determination of the Israeli public, saying their behavior strengthens the government, the Israel Defense Forces, and the Mossad during the ongoing confrontation.

Netanyahu also confirmed that Israeli forces are conducting significant strikes in Iran and Lebanon, though he said operational details could not be disclosed publicly for security reasons.

He called on municipal leaders and local authorities across Israel to remain near protected areas and ensure that emergency procedures are followed in their communities, assuring citizens that the government and security agencies were doing everything possible to safeguard the population.

Netanyahu concluded the message on a lighter note, thanking someone off camera for the coffee he was drinking and joking about its calories before ending the address.

The remarks come as tensions remain high in the region, with Israel maintaining heightened security measures and emergency preparedness amid ongoing missile threats and military operations.