Netanyahu Calls on Iranian Citizens to Seize ‘Opportunity’ for Regime Change

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on Iranian citizens to seize an opportunity for regime change amidst a backdrop of military strikes against Iran’s nuclear and military objectives. He highlighted that the current climate is ripe for uprising, particularly among minority groups that make up a significant portion of Iran’s population. Following Mahsa Amini’s death and widespread protests, there may be an emerging chance for change in governance. Netanyahu emphasizes that Israel’s conflict is with the regime, not the people.
In a surprising turn of events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Iranian citizens just hours after Israel conducted strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military installations. He expressed, “This is your opportunity to stand up [to the regime].” This statement comes amidst growing unrest in Iran and a complex international situation tied to the regime’s history of supporting terrorism across the region, which affects neighboring states such as Syria and Yemen.
Netanyahu emphasized the strategic significance of Israel’s military actions, asserting that these strikes aim to dismantle the nuclear and missile threats from Iran, thereby weakening the regime. He stated, “We are in the midst of one of the greatest military operations in history,” highlighting the urgency of Israel’s current objectives. Importantly, this situation could represent a crucial moment for Iranian dissidents, especially from the diverse minority groups comprising around half of Iran’s population.
Experts suggest that uniting these minorities, who often face oppression, might trigger significant changes. The death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022 sparked nationwide protests, showing both the volatility within Iran and the risk the regime faces from its own citizens. However, the government has responded violently, quelling dissent and displacing fears of another potential uprising amid its ongoing conflict with Israel.
Yigal Carmon, President of the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), told Fox News Digital that the Ahwazis, one of the minority groups in Iran, had already faced arrests as the regime anticipates further unrest. He stated, “A regime change will be supported by many,” asserting that only these organized minority groups could overturn the regime due to their military capabilities.
Carmon elaborated, “A coalition of non-Persian ethnic groups could topple the regime in a few months,” pointing to the Kurds and Baloch people as other significant players in this dynamic. Both groups have histories of opposition to the Iranian government yet have suffered severe repercussions for their resistance.
Concluding his call to the Iranian people, Netanyahu reinforced that Israel’s opposition is not against the Iranian populace but specifically against the ruling regime. He proclaimed, “It has never been weaker. This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard. Woman, Life, Freedom Zan, Zendegi, Azadi. Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you.”
Netanyahu’s statements reflect a complicated interplay of military strategy and calls for internal change among Iranians. He highlights the potential for regime changes driven by minority groups seeking to unite against oppression. The backdrop of unrest in Iran, fueled by recent protests and significant internal challenges, creates a unique moment that could reshape the nation’s future. Amid ongoing military operations, the Israeli leader emphasizes that Israel’s fight is not against the Iranian people but against their oppressive regime, urging citizens to capitalize on what he describes as a historic opportunity for change.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com