Following Israel’s recent attacks on its nuclear and military sites, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached out to the Iranian people, urging them, “This is your chance to stand up.” He emphasized that the oppressive regime, along with ongoing internal dissent, might signal an impending change, not just in its international stance but also in its grip over its people, who have been increasingly radicalized by state-sponsored terrorism throughout the region.
“We are currently engaged in the largest military operation in history,” Netanyahu remarked on Friday, warning that the repressive Islamic regime, which has held power for nearly five decades, poses a threat to Israel’s existence.
Israeli officials have indicated that their efforts to target Iran’s military capacities are aimed at mitigating the nuclear threat directed at Israel, while also potentially bolstering internal opposition against the regime.
Notably, minority groups constitute about half of Iran’s populace, and some experts suggest that if these groups—often victims of repression—unite against the government, they could significantly impact regime change.
The unrest in Iran intensified following the death of Mahsa Amini, a Kurdish woman who died in custody after being taken by the morality police in September 2022.
Amini’s death ignited widespread protests across Iran, leading to a brutal response from the government, which has continued to execute demonstrators. According to Yigal Carmon, president of the Middle East Media Institute, the Ahwazis, a minority in southwestern Iran, represent 6-8% of the population and have faced arrests amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel, raising questions about whether protests are still active or if the arrests were a preventive measure.
“Many will support a change in leadership,” Carmon opined. “Only minority groups are militarily organized, which positions them well to instigate a governmental shift.” He added that a coalition of non-Persian minorities could topple the regime relatively quickly, given their organization compared to the more fragmented Persian opposition.
Other ethnic groups, such as the Kurds who comprise 10-15% of Iran’s population and have historically opposed the government’s rule, could also play a crucial role. Netanyahu encouraged these groups, stating, “This is an opportunity to rise and make your voices heard.” He clarified that Israel’s struggle is not against the Iranian citizens but rather against a regime that perpetuates oppression and poverty. “Our fight is against a murderous Islamic regime that oppresses you,” he stated.
