On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is on the verge of toppling Iran’s Islamic Republic amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. During a visit to Israeli troops stationed on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, Netanyahu stated that although there is still work to be done, dismantling Iran’s “terror regime” remains Israel’s primary goal. He expressed confidence that Iran’s broader network of regional allies would ultimately disintegrate.
Netanyahu made these comments while accompanied by Defence Minister Israel Katz. Since the downfall of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Israeli forces have maintained their presence in southern Syria. They have occupied territories that were once part of a United Nations-patrolled buffer zone separating Israeli and Syrian forces near the Golan Heights, an area under Israeli control. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s determination to prevent what he described as a terrorist army from establishing a foothold along its border.
Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes in Syria following Assad’s ousting and has consistently deployed forces into Syrian territory. The Syrian government has denounced Israel’s military presence, labeling it a breach of Syria’s sovereignty. In contrast, Israel has asserted its intention to maintain a security zone and has advocated for an expanded demilitarized region in southern Syria.
Netanyahu’s recent comments on Iran occur against the backdrop of a larger confrontation between Tehran and Washington over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Both nations have engaged in attacks amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, further heightening regional tensions.