Israel Escalates Airstrikes Against Iran, Signals Potential Regime Change

Israel has launched an intense military campaign against Iran, achieving aerial supremacy over Tehran and conducting extensive airstrikes on nuclear, military, and civil infrastructure, including the headquarters of Iran’s state broadcaster. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, have hinted at regime change as a possible outcome, warning Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei that he could face a fate similar to Saddam Hussein if attacks on Israeli civilians continue. Despite Hezbollah’s historical role as an Iranian proxy, the group remains largely inactive due to recent losses, awaiting Iranian orders while condemning the strikes verbally but refraining from direct attacks. Iran’s strategy has shifted from proxy warfare to direct engagement, aiming to survive and leverage its missile and drone arsenal in a prolonged conflict to wear down Israel. Israeli political and military leaders express confidence that targeting Iran’s leadership could end the conflict rather than escalate it, while urging the Iranian people to rise against their government. The conflict represents a significant escalation with strategic implications for regional deterrence and the future of Iran’s regime.