Israeli Ambassador Claims Iran 'Losing Grip' Amid Sustained Strikes, Urges Internal Uprising
(NewsNation) — Sustained Israeli strikes against Iranian targets and its proxy Hezbollah are deliberately designed to undermine the Tehran regime's stability and empower internal dissent, according to Israel's top diplomat at the United Nations.
In an interview on Elizabeth Vargas Reports, Ambassador Danny Danon argued that the cumulative effect of recent operations has significantly degraded the Iranian government's operational control and morale. "The regime we see today is fundamentally weakened compared to just ten days ago," Danon stated. "With each passing day, key assets are being dismantled. Their command over events is slipping, and their actions reflect a growing sense of desperation and panic."
The public remarks align with a recent, direct appeal from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called on the Iranian people to overthrow their leaders. Netanyahu vowed continued military pressure "with growing force" against the ruling establishment, adding that Israel aims "to create the conditions for you to grasp your destiny."
Analysts note that such explicit calls for regime change mark an escalation in Israel's psychological and information warfare campaign. Danon expressed confidence that the Iranian populace possesses both the capability and courage to act following such encouragement. "I believe their time is coming sooner than later," he added.
The ambassador cited Iran's recent threats to mine the strategic Strait of Hormuz and continued attacks against neighbors as further evidence of the regime's erratic behavior under pressure. "Their lines of communication are faltering, and they have demonstrably less control over the situation," Danon concluded. "Threats will continue, but they stem from a position of weakness, not strength."
Reactions & Analysis:
Dr. Anahita Shirazi, Middle East Security Analyst at the Gulf States Institute: "Danon's rhetoric is clearly intended to amplify existing fractures within Iran. While the strikes have degraded certain military capabilities, claiming the regime is on the brink is a strategic narrative, not necessarily an immediate reality. The critical test will be whether internal discontent can coalesce into actionable opposition."
Mark Kovacs, Former U.S. State Department Official: "This represents a calculated shift. Israel is no longer just conducting covert ops or targeted strikes; it's openly framing the conflict as a catalyst for Iranian liberation. The risk is inflaming regional tensions further, but the potential reward—a less hostile government in Tehran—is a long-term strategic goal for Jerusalem."
Rebecca Stern, Foreign Policy Commentator: "This is reckless warmongering disguised as liberation theology. Netanyahu and Danon are playing with fire, encouraging uprising in a nuclear-capable state with zero guarantee of what follows. The 'desperation' they see could just as easily trigger a catastrophic retaliation, not a velvet revolution. It's a dangerous gamble with global consequences."
Professor Elias Dimopoulos, University of Athens: "The psychological dimension is key. By constantly highlighting the regime's 'panic' and 'loss of control,' Israel aims to shape perceptions both inside Iran and internationally. If the world and the Iranian street start believing the narrative, it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy."
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.