Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what’s behind the news that spins the globe.

Almost three weeks of the US-Israeli war on Iran have gone by. There are undoubtedly important achievements. This week, Israel assassinated Ali Larijani, perhaps the most important leader left in the Islamic Republic. It also took out leaders of the brutal Basij force, and there is no question that Iran’s ability to launch ballistic missiles and drones at its enemies has been severely degraded.

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Top officials in Gulf states are speaking out more openly about Iranian attacks, with a senior UAE adviser saying that the strikes will push the Gulf closer to Israel.

Despite the impressive — even unprecedented tactical achievements — key questions remain. How does this war end? How will Israel “create the conditions” for Iran’s people to topple the regime, and will we be back at war again in the coming years if they don’t?

Caroline Glick, a veteran journalist who has served as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s international affairs adviser during both Iran wars, lays out why Israel is fighting against Iran less than a year after Netanyahu declared that the 12-day war last June achieved a historic victory.

She says that Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump are aligned on the goals of the campaign, and that reports of discord do not reflect reality.

Glick makes clear that it is up to the Iranian people to achieve their freedom, but Israel is doing what it can to pave the way from the air.

Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Yitzy Ledee.

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