Fact Check: The aim of Israel's operation was to divide and destabilize Iran's regime.

What We Know

Recent military operations by Israel against Iran have sparked significant debate regarding their objectives. On June 12, 2025, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting key Iranian nuclear sites and military leadership, which were described as an effort to "decapitate Iran's military leadership and degrade its nuclear program" (Brookings). Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu indicated that the operation aimed to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, suggesting a direct military focus rather than a broader goal of regime destabilization (Washington Post).

However, reports also indicate that these strikes are part of a larger strategy that may include undermining the foundations of Iran's political regime. According to a Reuters article, Israel's airstrikes were not solely aimed at nuclear facilities but also sought to "break the foundations of Khamenei's rule," hinting at ambitions that extend beyond military objectives to potentially destabilizing the Iranian government itself.

Analysis

The claim that Israel's operation aims to divide and destabilize Iran's regime is supported by some evidence but remains complex. On one hand, the immediate military actions appear focused on degrading Iran's nuclear capabilities and military leadership. The airstrikes were described as successful in neutralizing Iranian air defenses and eliminating key figures within the military (Brookings). This aligns with a tactical military objective rather than an explicit goal of regime change.

On the other hand, the broader implications of these strikes suggest a potential strategy aimed at weakening the Iranian regime. The Reuters report highlights that the strikes could be interpreted as part of a larger ambition for regime change, reflecting a long-standing Israeli concern over Iran's influence in the region. This duality complicates the narrative: while the immediate goal may be military, the underlying motivations could indeed include destabilizing Iran's political structure.

The sources used in this analysis vary in reliability. The Brookings Institution is generally considered a credible source of policy analysis, while Reuters is known for its journalistic integrity. However, the interpretation of military actions as indicative of regime change ambitions may be subject to bias, particularly given the politically charged nature of the topic.

Conclusion

Needs Research. The claim that Israel's operation aims to divide and destabilize Iran's regime is partially supported by evidence but lacks a definitive consensus. While military actions are clearly aimed at degrading Iran's nuclear capabilities, the broader implications regarding regime destabilization remain speculative and require further investigation to fully understand the motivations and potential outcomes of Israel's military strategy.

Fact Check: The aim of Israel's operation was to divide and destabilize Iran's regime.