Netanyahu says he ordered security agencies to seek regime change in Iran

Speaking at the officer-course graduation at Bahad 1 this evening, the prime minister said he had instructed Israel's security agencies to work toward toppling Iran's regime. He alleged that Tehran was renewing its efforts to develop nuclear weapons.

In the speech published by his office, Netanyahu attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei a decision to continue his father's nuclear policy. He presented regime change as necessary, in his view, to remove the threat to Israel.

These were the prime minister's statements about his policy and assessment of the threat. The speech did not announce the start of a new military operation or set out an operational timetable or plan.