Netanyahu says overthrowing Iran’s regime is ‘within reach’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that overthrowing Iran’s Islamic Republic was “within reach,” as the United States resumed attacks and increased pressure on Tehran. Netanyahu said the Iranian government was weaker than ever and fighting for its survival.

Is overthrowing Iran’s regime within reach?

Netanyahu said Iran’s government is under severe pressure and that Israel believes it can remove the threat posed by the Islamic Republic. He said overthrowing the regime remains Israel’s central task, while acknowledging that the effort is not yet complete.

“This regime is currently teetering. It is weaker than ever. It is fighting for its survival,” Netanyahu said at an event with Israeli military leaders.

“I am convinced that we can remove this threat once and for all, that is, to overthrow this regime. That is the central task that still lies ahead of us, but it is close. It is not impossible. It is within reach,” he said.

Netanyahu has described Iran’s cleric-run government as an existential threat to Israel for decades. In late February, Israel launched a joint attack on Iran with the United States, although President Donald Trump abruptly called a ceasefire in April.

The United States has since imposed more economic pressure on Iran and resumed strikes this week.

Why is Netanyahu targeting Iran’s government?

The renewed US attacks have prompted Iran to retaliate against US allies in the Gulf, Jordan and Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region. Iran has not, however, attacked Israel, according to Netanyahu.

“If they're not attacking us, it is not by chance. They attack everyone, but not us,” Netanyahu said.

“They know our power, the strength of our arms, and our determination.”

Netanyahu’s latest comments come as Israel continues to focus on Iran and its leadership. His remarks also come ahead of Israel’s Oct. 27 general elections, where some polls show him trailing.

Opposition leaders have accused Netanyahu of failing on Iran, adding a domestic political dimension to his latest statements about the conflict and the future of Iran’s government.