His remarks have coincided with calls from a range of Iranian opposition groups — both within the country and abroad — for a mass uprising against the regime. These factions span a wide political and ideological spectrum, including secular dissidents, ethnic militias, Islamist groups, and royalists. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a bold appeal to the Iranian people, urging them to overthrow their government as Israel continues an unprecedented military operation against the Islamic Republic. Israeli officials have been quick to underline that their conflict is with Iran’s ruling regime — not its people — and have echoed Netanyahu’s call for citizens to rise against their government. Still, while enthusiasm is reportedly building among opponents of the Islamic Republic, analysts and former officials are treating claims of an imminent insurrection with scepticism.

Source: The Times June 18, 2025 10:48 UTC