Bennett to Iranian TV: Israel will help topple the regime

Yamina chairman Naftali Bennett said he has drawn up a detailed plan to help Iranians overthrow their government, speaking to Babak Itzhaki on the opposition channel Iran International. Bennett said many regime opponents are frustrated that a likely U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding on Friday could save and strengthen Tehran’s hardline rulers. He told Iranians, “Do not lose your hope,” and said, “We’re going to do everything in our power to ultimately topple this horrible regime.”

Bennett said outside powers should be ready to assist when Iranians next rise up. “What we are going to do is make sure that the next time the Iranian people rise up, we give them the tools to win, communications and other tools,” he said, adding that “the role of us is to accelerate it.” He said the plan he prepared would use “many tools, not just war,” including economic tools, diplomatic tools, covert and overt operations, and efforts to empower the Iranian public.

His remarks came as many anti-regime Iranians worried that Washington and Tehran were moving toward an agreement that would preserve the same system that has violently suppressed its citizens. Bennett warned that the emerging deal should not proceed unless a final agreement completely dismantles Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile program and regional proxy network. He called the expected memorandum “temporary” and said sanctions and pressure must continue until a final, better deal is reached.

Bennett compared the Islamic Republic to the Soviet Union in its final years, saying authoritarian systems can collapse faster than expected. He told Iranian leaders, “Your time is running out. We are after you. We know exactly who you are. And you will not remain in power for long.” He ended by telling Iranians, “Hold your heads up. Be proud. Be strong. We are with you.”