Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appeared in a video shared on social media, calmly drinking coffee and chatting with a colleague, dispelling rumours of his death or serious injury. The footage, posted on Sunday via Netanyahu’s Telegram account, comes after Iranian media reported that the Israeli leader had been killed or gravely wounded.
The video was filmed at a café on the outskirts of Jerusalem, where Netanyahu is seen responding to questions from his aide about the circulating reports. In a lighthearted moment, he jokes about the Hebrew word for “dead,” explaining that it can also convey excitement or frenzy. He adds with characteristic humour, “I am mad about coffee. You know, I am mad for my people too.”
Verification of the video’s authenticity was carried out by Reuters, comparing images of the café with the scenes depicted in the footage. Additional photographs and videos from Netanyahu’s visit corroborate the timing and location of the recording.
Since 28 February, following the start of Israeli and U.S. operations in Iran, Netanyahu has visited at least two cities, a hospital, a port, and a military base. Media access to these sites has been tightly controlled, with all coverage provided by the Prime Minister’s office.
Netanyahu is known for limiting media interactions and rarely holds press conferences. Since the escalation of the Iran conflict, he conducted his first video-link press briefing last Thursday, a method previously used during Israel’s 12-day conflict with Iran in June last year.
The Israeli government has implemented strict emergency measures nationwide. Public gatherings are prohibited, citizens are urged to remain at home, in shelters, or in secure rooms, and most schools remain closed.
Key Details Summary
| Item | Date/Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Video release | 15 March 2026 | Filmed at Jerusalem café, posted on Telegram |
| Death rumours | Early March 2026 | Spread by Iranian state media and online platforms |
| Site visits | Since 28 February 2026 | Includes two cities, hospital, port, and military base |
| Security measures | Ongoing since February 2026 | Public gatherings banned, schools closed, citizens advised to stay in shelters |
| Press activity | 10 March 2026 | First video-link briefing since conflict escalation |
The video serves to reassure both domestic and international audiences of Netanyahu’s safety, countering misinformation amid heightened regional tensions.