Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that Israel is nearing the goal of dismantling Iran’s Islamic Republic, a statement made amid escalating conflict in the Middle East. During his visit to Israeli troops stationed on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, Netanyahu emphasized that although there is still work to be done, the primary aim remains the overthrow of Iran’s “terror regime.” He further expressed confidence that Iran’s network of regional allies would eventually disintegrate.
Accompanying Netanyahu on this visit was Defence Minister Israel Katz. Israeli forces have maintained positions in southern Syria following the collapse of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. These forces have taken control of areas that were once part of a United Nations-patrolled buffer zone, which separated Israeli and Syrian troops near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s firm stance against allowing a “terrorist army” to establish itself along its border.
Since the fall of Assad, Israel has conducted numerous strikes within Syria and has frequently deployed forces into Syrian territory. This military presence has been condemned by Damascus as a breach of its sovereignty. However, Israel maintains that it is essential to uphold its security zone and is advocating for a broader demilitarized region in southern Syria to ensure its protection.
Netanyahu’s recent comments on Iran are part of a larger confrontation between Tehran and Washington, centered around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. This ongoing conflict has seen both sides engaging in attacks, further intensifying the already volatile situation in the region.