Netanyahu Declares Toppling Iranian Regime Israel's Central Mission and Goal Within Reach at Rosh Hashanah Event with Military Leaders

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on September 3 that toppling Iran's government is now Israel's central objective and within reach, declaring the regime currently teetering and weaker than ever, according to Times of Israel, Xinhua, CP24, and multiple outlets. Speaking at a Rosh Hashanah toast with the Israel Defense Forces General Staff Forum, Netanyahu said I am convinced that we can remove this threat once and for all, that is to overthrow this regime. That is the central task that still lies ahead of us, but it is close. It is not impossible. It is within reach, according to Free Malaysia Today, Siasat, and AAJ TV. Netanyahu told the assembled IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and Defense Minister Israel Katz that the regime is currently fighting for its survival, per Israel Hayom. The prime minister also said Iran attacks everyone but not us, because they know our power, the strength of our arms, and our determination, according to Shafaqna India. Netanyahu made the remarks as the United States resumed attacks on Iran following a month-long pause, continuing the war that began with a joint US-Israeli strike on February 28. His campaign ahead of the October 27 general election is under pressure from opposition leaders accusing him of failing on Iran policy, according to CBS News. The explicit statement marks the first time Israeli officials have formally declared regime change as a declared war aim in the 2026 Iran conflict, per Israel Hayom analysis. Defense Minister Israel Katz held a multifront security assessment on September 3 with senior military and defense officials, his office said, though no further details were given, per Times of Israel. Earlier, Katz warned that if Iran attacks Israel, the military will target all of the regime's infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, according to Times of Israel reporting.