Before US-Israeli Operation In Iran: Mossad Chief Says It Could Take A Year To Oust Iranian Regime

A report from The Jerusalem Post dated Tuesday, March 24, 2026, reveals that Mossad’s Director, David Barnea, informed the Israeli cabinet on the brink of conflict that any changes to Iran’s government could take up to a year.

Barnea shared this view during internal security talks held just before hostilities began, presenting a timeline that differed from earlier assumptions of a quicker political change in the Islamic Republic.

In his briefing, the head of intelligence noted that although military actions and secret missions might weaken Iran’s leadership, the task of changing the ruling regime would not occur swiftly. He anticipated a lengthy period of turmoil and gradual changes on the ground.

This estimate mirrored wider intelligence assessments indicating that changes in Iran’s internal politics would rely on several elements, including public reaction, unity within the ruling body, and the ongoing effects of international pressure.

Barnea’s comments emerged as Israeli officials contemplated the military and strategic repercussions of a potential conflict with Iran. His forecast highlighted the difficulties in achieving political change in a nation with strong institutions and a history of quashing dissent.

The Mossad director has been engaged for a long time in efforts to counter Iran’s influence in the region and thwart its nuclear goals. Reports indicate that under his direction, the agency has executed various operations aimed at Iranian military assets and personnel.

This early estimate seems aimed at setting realistic expectations among key decision-makers, stressing that significant military successes might not lead to immediate changes in politics.

The information provides insight into the critical discussions taking place in Israel, showing how intelligence professionals evaluated the likely course of events beyond the battlefield.

Although this timeline is still an estimate, it emphasizes the difficulties tied to scenarios of regime change, especially in nations with concentrated power and strong security forces.

Ultimately, Barnea’s prediction positioned the conflict as not merely a short-term effort, but rather a situation that could evolve over a longer timeframe with uncertain results……See More