The Fox News Rundown True Change In The Mideast Could Hinge On Regime Change In Iran
Mar 18, 2026
Danny Ayalon, former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. and ex-deputy foreign minister now leading Silver Road Capital Group, discusses Israel’s strikes on Iranian leadership and the strategy behind targeted leadership removals. He covers military benchmarks for withdrawal, the link between force and political change, and shifting Arab states’ stances toward Iran.
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Israel Seeks Capability Over Intent
- Israel aims not only to degrade Iran's military capabilities but to remove its regional proxy network and command infrastructure.
- Danny Ayalon cites strikes on nuclear enrichment, ballistic missiles, launchers, and command leaders as measurable benchmarks of success.
Iranian Public Discontent Is High But Needs Protection
- A large majority of Iranians want regime change, but they need empowerment and protection to act against the clerical regime.
- Ayalon estimates ~80% oppose the regime and suggests defections from regular army or insiders could accelerate collapse.
Pair Military Benchmarks With Political Empowerment
- Do pair kinetic operations with political moves to create openings for internal regime allies to defect.
- Ayalon urges waiting for benchmarks (uranium removed, missiles destroyed) then rely on Iranian internal actors and army elements.