According to a report by The Times Of Israel on March 12, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says there is no certainty that the Iranian public will rise up against the leadership in Tehran even if Israel helps create circumstances that could encourage such an outcome.
Speaking about the possibility of unrest in Iran, Netanyahu explained that external pressure alone cannot ensure that citizens will move to overthrow the government. He indicated that while Israel may attempt to influence conditions, the decision to take action ultimately rests with the Iranian people themselves.
“You can lead someone to water, you cannot make him drink,” says Netanyahu. “We will create optimal conditions to do this, including airstrikes as we did yesterday, as we are doing these days, to try to give them the space needed to take to the streets.”
His remarks suggest that Israel believes sustained military pressure could weaken the environment supporting the ruling system and possibly embolden public protests. However, Netanyahu acknowledged that such developments cannot be guaranteed, emphasizing that internal change must come from within the country.
During the same discussion, Netanyahu was also asked about the possibility of targeting Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Responding to the question, he avoided directly confirming or denying any potential plans involving the leadership in Tehran but hinted at the risks faced by figures linked to groups hostile to Israel.
“I wouldn’t take out a life insurance policy on any of the leaders of the terror organizations,” Netanyahu says.
The comments come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with regional developments continuing to draw global attention.