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Israel to Iran: We Are Your Friend, Not Your Enemy

by Associated Press

   JERUSALEM --

   Israel's leader has recorded a conciliatory message to the people of
   Iran, saying, "We are your friend, not your enemy."

   In a video uploaded to his Facebook page Saturday, Benjamin Netanyahu
   addresses the people of Iran in English, with Farsi subtitles.

   Netanyahu said he will soon discuss with U.S. President Donald Trump
   how to counter the threat of an Iranian regime that calls for Israel's
   destruction, but that he distinguishes between the regime and the
   people.

   "You have a proud history. You have a rich culture. Tragically, you are
   shackled by a theocratic tyranny," he said.

   Israel regards Iran as its most dangerous adversary because of its
   nuclear program, development of long-range missiles and continued
   support for militant groups.

   Netanyahu considers a nuclear-armed Iran a threat to his country's very
   existence.