Washington, March 1 (NationPress) Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett stated on Sunday that Israel’s operations against Iran are progressively diminishing the regime's hold on authority. He contended that ongoing strikes are undermining the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and fostering opportunities for the Iranian populace to shape their destiny.

“We have numerous targets to weaken the regime and the IRGC, effectively laying siege to the entire terror apparatus that is oppressing its own citizens,” Bennett expressed in a Fox News Sunday interview.

He characterized the initial stage of these operations as concentrating on the removal of high-ranking officials, asserting, “The first wave aimed to decapitate the leadership.” Following the dismantling of air defenses, he noted that Israel is now positioned to disrupt the wider security framework.

“By striking at the primary centers of command and coordination, you can inflict damage,” Bennett explained. “Consider that the Iranian populace is bound by chains of oppression. We are working to weaken those chains. Ultimately, it is for the Iranian people to rise and break free to secure their liberty.”

Bennett underscored that Israel’s mission is defensive in nature. “The precise aim of Israel is not regime change,” he clarified. “Our purpose is to safeguard ourselves and to eliminate the dreadful threat that has loomed over us for an extended period.”

He warned that failure to act would have left Israel and its allies vulnerable to an escalating threat. “If we had not taken action now, Iran would have amassed tens of thousands of ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ones, alongside nuclear capabilities that could target Israel, Europe, and the United States,” he stated.

Bennett also indicated that the Iranian military framework has already endured significant setbacks. “The IRGC today is not what it was a month ago. It is considerably weakened. Its commander has been eliminated, and much of its leadership has been disrupted, and we are just getting started,” he remarked.

However, he acknowledged the unpredictability surrounding internal dynamics in Iran. “When discussing public uprisings, no one can truly predict the timing; it could happen in days, months, or perhaps not at all,” Bennett noted.

He likened the situation to the downfall of the Soviet Union, saying, “Recall the former Soviet Union in the 1980s; no one could foresee its collapse. This regime exhibits similar traits of corruption, decay, alienation from the populace, and sheer malevolence,” he said.

Regarding broader regional implications, Bennett asserted, “The major takeaway is: do not mess with President Trump.” He added, “Already, the world is safer compared to yesterday.”

Israel has consistently regarded Iran’s nuclear and missile initiatives as existential dangers. Tensions have escalated due to Tehran’s enrichment operations and its backing of militia groups throughout West Asia.

As the Iranian leadership reportedly faces instability and regional tensions heighten, Bennett’s comments highlight Israel’s stance that persistent military pressure remains essential, even as uncertainties linger regarding the eventual developments within Iran.