Israeli President Isaac Herzog declared on Wednesday that it is time for the international community to tell Iran, "Guys, we're fed up." He stated that Israel and the U.S. had little choice but to take action against Iran, citing intelligence that Iran intends to expand its long-range missile arsenal and is pursuing a nuclear weapon.
Herzog, in an interview with "CBS Evening News" anchor Tony Dokoupil, highlighted concerns over Iran's investment in regional destabilization and its alleged "secret plan to rush to the bomb." While neither the U.S. nor Israel has publicly presented evidence for these specific claims, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff previously stated that Iranian negotiators had claimed enough uranium for 11 nuclear bombs.
With joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes against Iran now ongoing, Herzog clarified that Israel is not calling for a ground invasion. He emphasized that the decision for the strikes was President Trump's, made with clear professional considerations, and that Israel's role was as an ally.
The goal, Herzog explained, is not necessarily regime change but a "Middle East change" - crippling Iran's nuclear capabilities and ending its state sponsorship of terror, including support for proxies like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
Regarding the war's endgame, Herzog acknowledged it requires time and careful consideration. He noted a "constant weakening of the Iranian regime's capabilities." When asked about potential leadership changes in Iran, Herzog deferred, stating it's not Israel's job to decide who leads Iran.
He described the U.S.-Israel coordination in the war as "superbly close" but acknowledged that the conflict is "not a popular war in America," understanding that the public may not grasp the intricate details.