Akhtar Slams Trump-Netanyahu Duo as Bullies Over Iran Assassination Strike
On X, Akhtar said Trump and Netanyahu like all bullies, have pushed others to the wall, risking China's credibility if Iran faces Iraq-like fate post-Khamenei killing.
Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has sharply criticised US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the joint strikes on Iran, likening them to "bullies" who have pushed others "to the wall," forcing a decisive response.
In a post on X dated February 28, 2026—hours after the airstrikes killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—Akhtar wrote: "I think this time trump and Israel have over played there hand because if they are allowed to get away with this audacity and do an Iraq to Iran China will lose her total credibility in the world. Netanyahu and Trump like all the bullies have pushed others to the wall and ultimately left no choice to others but to react in a decisive manner." His comments reflect concerns over global power dynamics and the risk of broader escalation.
The statement comes amid Iran's retaliatory missile strikes on US bases and Israeli targets, explosions across Gulf states, and a leadership crisis in Tehran, where a three-member interim council now steers the nation through 40 days of mourning. Akhtar's rhetoric echoes sentiments from Bollywood figures like Esha Gupta, stranded in Dubai due to flight suspensions, highlighting the conflict's personal toll on Indians abroad.
Also Read: Iran Enters Survival Phase Following Khamenei's Killing In Joint Airstrikes
Domestically, Delhi protests over Khamenei's assassination prompted security tightenings, while PM Narendra Modi chaired a CCS meeting on West Asia risks and urged Netanyahu to prioritise civilian safety. US travel advisories for Bahrain and Qatar hit Level 3, and markets shifted toward energy and gold per Quantum Strategy amid oil disruptions.
Trump defended the operation—deemed the "largest, most complex military offensives"—with CENTCOM footage, as Iran enters survival mode facing fresh Israeli hits on Tehran. Akhtar's outspoken view amplifies anti-war voices in India, balancing ties with Israel, Iran, and the US.
The post has sparked debate on social media, with supporters praising his candour and critics questioning its geopolitical nuance, underscoring Bollywood's role in public discourse during crises. As tensions persist, such reactions highlight fears of prolonged conflict.
Also Read: Putin Sends Condolences, Denounces Killing of Iran’s Khamenei
