In a revealing interview, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz disclosed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had targeted the assassination of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei since November. According to Katz, these discussions were held within a small circle prior to setting a concrete timeline for the execution of this plan, which was tentatively scheduled for mid-2024, around June. This information indicates a proactive stance by the Israeli government regarding Iranian leadership at a time of heightened tensions.

Katz elaborated that during the initial planning stages, Israel did not share its intentions with Washington, indicating a level of independence in military strategy. The Israeli Defense Minister emphasized the preparation for potentially executing the plan without U.S. support, asserting the necessity for Israel to be self-reliant in matters of national security. This revelation raises concerns about the potential for a unilateral military action that could further destabilize the already volatile region.

Moreover, the increasing unrest within Iran, particularly through widespread protests, has served to hasten Israeli plans for potential attacks. This context not only reflects Israel's aggressive posture towards Iran but also highlights how domestic instability in Iran may influence external military strategies. As political dynamics evolve within Iran, Israel appears to be utilizing these disturbances to recalibrate its approach toward Iranian leadership, signaling a complex interplay between internal events and external military ambitions.