As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate, new reports suggest that an indirect objective of upcoming Israeli and U.S. retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets is to encourage regime change in Iran. According to a report by The Times, the planned strikes aim to hit key elements of the Iranian military, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij paramilitary group—forces responsible for suppressing internal protests against the Iranian government.
The U.S. and Israel’s focus on hitting key military figures within Iran is seen as a potential opportunity to weaken the regime’s grip on power. The IRGC and Basij paramilitary groups have been instrumental in maintaining internal control in Iran, particularly in suppressing protests. By targeting these forces, Israel reportedly hopes to undermine the regime’s ability to quell further unrest and, potentially, embolden opposition movements within the country.
Israeli television reports confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant were briefed on the finalized targets. Israeli officials have described the targets as “clear,” indicating that the military is now waiting for the right moment to strike.
U.S. officials have been briefed on the general scope of Israel’s planned response, although specific targets may still change ‘in the 11th hour’. The strikes are expected to focus on military infrastructure, as President Biden has reportedly urged Israel to avoid attacks on civilian or sensitive economic targets, such as Iran’s oil and nuclear facilities. Despite these cautions, Defense Minister Gallant recently assured Israeli families that the response would be “precise and deadly.”
Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon stated that the planned retaliation would be “very painful” for Iran. He emphasized that Israel would decide on the timing and nature of the strikes, independent of external pressures, including those from the United States.
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