Yair Golan Calls Iran Leader's Assassination a Mistake

Yair Golan, Chairman of the Democrats party, has sparked controversy by stating that the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was a mistake. Speaking at a "Shishi Tarbut" event in Rishon Lezion, Golan argued that the action did not serve Israel's interests and that the subsequent "Lion's Roar" operation worsened Israel's strategic situation. He elaborated that removing the old leadership left Iran in the hands of more extreme elements and expressed doubts about the effectiveness of Khamenei's son. Golan contended that Israel's peak achievement against Iran was before the "With All the Lions" operation, and the subsequent campaign harmed its long-term standing. He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for setting an unrealistic goal of overthrowing the Iranian regime without a post-regime political strategy. Golan later clarified on X that while the assassination could have been a historical turning point, Netanyahu missed the opportunity for regional political progress. This contrasts with his earlier praise of the Israeli-American action as dramatic and significant, attributing regional terror and instability to Khamenei. Defense Minister Israel Katz attacked Golan's remarks, linking them to other opposition leaders' security stances. Itamar Ben-Gvir also sharply criticized Golan and the Israeli left for statements against government policy.

Golan also addressed the issue of Haredi conscription, calling the current situation "organized idleness." He advocated for canceling deferments that allow Haredi yeshiva students to study until age 26 while receiving state stipends, and for conditioning institutional funding on core curriculum studies. He also proposed expanding IDF and civilian service options to include vocational training.

Regarding the Gaza Strip, Golan accused Netanyahu of perpetuating Hamas's rule due to the lack of a governing alternative, arguing this policy harms Israel's security and IDF soldiers.