Israel could be aiming for regime change in Tehran, U.S. believes
Israel’s recent decapitation strikes against the Iranian military have raised concerns that Tel Aviv might be aiming to usher in regime change in Tehran, CNN reported on June 13, citing U.S. officials and other sources.
According to recent U.S. intelligence assessments, the objective of regime change has long been part of Israel’s policy. Some U.S. officials believe Israel saw an attack on Iran as an opportunity to try and topple the regime.
U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said during a congressional appearance in March that intelligence officials continue to assess that Iran is not currently pursuing nuclear weapons development and that its supreme leader has not authorized a resumption of the nuclear program paused in 2003.
A source familiar with the planning said U.S. officials had a clear picture of the scale of the Israeli operation as early as last week. Intelligence officers received multiple updates daily and were preparing for various scenarios depending on Iran’s reaction.
Israel’s Operation Strength of a Lion, involving 200 fighter jets and over 330 munitions targeting 100 targets, including Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military sites, began on June 13.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue until objectives are met.
Iranian Armed Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Abolfazl Shekarchi and Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened Israel and the United States with a "tough response" for the night strikes. Iran has already launched about 100 drones at Israel.
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