Netanyahu says overthrowing Iran’s regime is essential but not realistic before Israel’s October 27 election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that overthrowing Iran’s government remains essential in his view, but acknowledged that regime change before Israel’s October 27 election is not realistic.

Asked whether regime change in Iran could happen before the vote, Netanyahu replied, “No, I don’t think that’s realistic.” He nevertheless said, “This regime must go,” arguing that Iran’s leadership remains a direct threat to Israel.

Netanyahu said Israel had already done “a great deal” against Iran and claimed the country was at its weakest point ever, adding: “But we need to finish the job.”

He also said confronting Iran had been a defining focus of his political career, saying he had “dedicated my entire life to this” and spent extensive time making Israel’s case on U.S. television.

Netanyahu further argued that Israel is now “the strongest power” and said the country’s economy was booming, though his broader claims about Iran’s weakness and Israel’s relative strength were political assessments rather than independently measurable facts.

His remarks came as he separately said he was not seeking a preemptive strike on Iran before the election, while warning that Israel would respond forcefully if attacked.