Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was coy about whether the ultimate goal of the preemptive strikes on Iran is a regime change, but made clear that such a powershift would be a welcome outcome.

Explosions reported in capital Tehran as Israeli Defence Minister announces "pre-emptive strikes" and announces state of emergency

Israel has reportedly carried out a pre-emptive strike targeting sites in Iran, according to Israeli media outlet Channel 12. The attack comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Al Jazeera reporting loud explosions in Tehran shortly after the strike. Axios also confirmed that air raid sirens were heard across multiple locations in Israel.

President Trump rejected rightwing pundit Tucker Carlson’s withering criticism that he is ditching America First principles through his support for Israel amid its military campaign against

“Following the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future,” Israel’s Defense Minister Ian Katz said in a statement.

As a longtime enemy attacks an oppressive government, Iranians are cycling through conflicting emotions: hope and hopelessness, celebration and trepidation.