Dr. Yossi Mansharof

Concealing the scale of its losses is not merely a media tactic, but a central strategic mechanism that allows Hezbollah to preserve its narrative of “victory” and prevent internal erosion. The concealment is an attempt to preserve an artificial image of victory in the face of a reality of attrition and destruction, with the terrorist organization knowing that exposing the truth could lead to its unraveling.

As Iran and Hezbollah exploit Lebanon’s hollow sovereignty, Israel must reject diplomatic illusions and secure its northern border through sustained territorial control south of the Litani River.

The overthrow of the Islamic regime must remain the central strategic goal in Israel’s historic struggle against Iran. In any reality where the regime remains in power, it will seek to rehabilitate its offensive capabilities and the “Axis of Resistance,” and once again advance, at the opportune moment, the vision of Israel’s destruction.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s decision to enter into a direct confrontation with Israel has placed Iran in an unprecedented reality. The regime now finds itself more exposed than ever, without an effective regional buffer, facing mounting external pressure alongside a deepening internal crisis.

As US forces reinforce the region and President Trump escalates deterrent messaging, regime-linked discourse in Tehran has increasingly focused on potential response scenarios. Senior figures have openly threatened a preemptive strike. Iran’s available options center primarily on its missile and drone capabilities, but also include asymmetric measures such as targeted assassinations in Israel, possible activation of sleeper cell operatives inside the United States, and a ground incursion carried out by an actor from the Axis of Resistance, under the guidance of the Quds Force.

The protest movement in Iran reflects a deep crisis that will affect not only the conduct of the regime, fearful for its future and fighting for survival, but also the future of …