Israel’s sweeping assault on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure has sparked open calls from its top leadership for regime change in Tehran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated in multiple interviews that eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei could “end the war” and bring down what he calls “a very weak regime.”

Although regime change was not an officially approved objective by Israel’s war cabinet, Israeli officials acknowledge that the idea is now being openly discussed. Netanyahu even appeared on an Iranian opposition TV program titled “Regime Change in Iran,” signaling the shift.

Trump Unconvinced by Khamenei Strike

President Donald Trump has thus far resisted calls to support an Israeli push for regime change. When Israel presented a plan to assassinate Khamenei, Trump opposed it. “It’s the Ayatollah you know versus the Ayatollah you don’t,” a senior U.S. official remarked, adding that Trump still believes a deal is possible.

While the U.S. backs Israel’s efforts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities, it is reluctant to engage in broader regime-toppling operations.

Propaganda, Pressure, and Civilian Impact

In an unusual move, Israeli warplanes struck Iran’s state-run TV station during a live broadcast, claiming the site was also used for military purposes. Netanyahu said it was meant to curtail regime propaganda and warned that further government-linked sites could be targeted.

Despite internal tensions, Iran's leadership remains cohesive. Analysts like Raz Zimmt from INSS say the strikes may be fueling national unity in the short term, though continued attacks on intelligence assets could eventually weaken regime stability.

U.S. Warns Allies: No War Unless Americans Are Targeted

Trump administration officials privately informed Middle Eastern allies that the U.S. would only join the war if Iran targets American forces. Though the U.S. has helped intercept Iranian missiles, it remains outside the direct offensive.

Still, observers warn that Israel's aggressive posture and Trump’s Tehran evacuation warning have pushed the region closer to a dangerous threshold.