Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel is on the brink of dismantling Iran’s Islamic Republic, as hostilities in the Middle East continue to escalate. During a visit to Israeli troops located on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, Netanyahu articulated that while there is still work to be done, the primary goal remains the elimination of what he termed Iran’s “terror regime.” He further expressed confidence that Iran’s broader network of regional allies would ultimately disintegrate.
Accompanied by Defence Minister Israel Katz, Netanyahu’s visit underscored the ongoing presence of Israeli forces in southern Syria following the fall of former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Israeli military units have taken control of areas formerly within a United Nations-monitored buffer zone that separated Israeli and Syrian forces near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s stance against allowing a “terrorist army” to establish itself along its border.
Since the downfall of Assad, Israel has conducted numerous strikes within Syrian territory and has frequently deployed forces across the border. The Syrian government has condemned these actions as violations of its sovereignty. Nonetheless, Israel maintains its commitment to a security zone and has advocated for an expanded demilitarized area in southern Syria.
Netanyahu’s recent statements about Iran coincide with broader tensions between Tehran and Washington, particularly concerning the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This key maritime passage has become a flashpoint, with both nations engaging in retaliatory actions amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.