‘The Regime Must Fall’: Iranian Dissident on Why Israel’s Strikes Offer Hope, Not Fear

Ben Vali is not new to resistance. For over two decades, the exiled Iranian dissident has been one of the most outspoken voices against the Islamic Republic, calling for international support for the people of Iran. Now, as Israel conducts precision strikes against Iranian military and regime-linked infrastructure, Vali sees more than military action — he sees opportunity.

“The people have suffered for 45 years,” Vali tells The Times of Israel. “This moment may be painful, but it could also be the beginning of Iran’s freedom.”

An Iranian-American journalist, author, and women’s rights activist Masih Alinejad and Ben Vali (Photo Private)

‘People are in shock. Many can’t believe this is real’

Asked how he views the current situation on the ground, Vali does not hesitate:

“What’s happening is no longer theoretical. This is a full-scale tactical war, and the Iranian people — from Tehran to Mashhad — are stunned. Many still cannot grasp that this is unfolding in their own cities.”

He notes that despite efforts by the regime to shut down internet access and control information flow, many Iranians are quietly watching the strikes unfold — and in many cases, not mourning them.

‘Israel is playing chess while the regime plays with blood’

Vali draws a stark contrast between Israel’s operations and the Islamic regime’s conduct:

“Israel is not launching random attacks. These are intelligent, targeted actions — a kind of strategic chess. The strikes focus on decision-makers, torturers, those who’ve held Iran hostage.”

He dismisses any attempt by the regime to portray itself as a victim.

“This is a government that has long sacrificed its own people. When Israel warned of incoming strikes, the regime cut the internet — not to protect civilians, but to keep them in the dark. They didn’t activate sirens, didn’t evacuate areas. Because to them, civilians are expendable.”

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Two paths forward: Collapse or uprising

Vali sees two likely scenarios ahead:

One, Israel systematically dismantles the regime’s capabilities, revealing its vulnerabilities. In this vacuum, Iranians may find the courage — and the moment — to rise up.

Two, top leaders are eliminated, triggering internal collapse or even civil war. While more dangerous, Vali argues this too could lead to rebirth.

“Even from the ashes, a new Iran can rise,” he says. “One that belongs to its people, not to a violent theocracy.”

‘The West must stop watching and start acting’

Vali is blunt when speaking of the international community:

“Israel has done in days what others failed to do in decades. But Israel should not stand alone. The free world must align itself not only against the regime, but with the Iranian people.”

He calls for tangible steps:

• Support for political prisoners
• Emergency extraction missions for those in immediate danger
• Safe corridors for women and children
• And coordinated pressure on the regime to disarm and capitulate

“This isn’t just about freedom. It’s about survival.”

‘Israel is ethical. The regime is criminal’

Vali rejects comparisons between Israel and the Islamic Republic.

“Israel targets military sites and regime figures. It avoids civilian casualties — even when striking those who have attacked its people. The Iranian regime, on the other hand, has spent decades funding terror against Jews and Israelis worldwide.”

“This is not a regime that deserves recognition. It has never recognized Israel as a state — it has no moral right to comment on Israel’s actions.”

Smoke rises following an Israeli attack in Tehran, Iran, on June 18. Photograph: Majid Asgaripour.

‘Let this be the last chapter of tyranny’

His final message is both emotional and defiant:

“Iran deserves life — but not under this regime. The Islamic Republic was built on a cult of death. It does not represent our culture, our values, or our future.”

“Dissidents must keep speaking. The West must stop appeasing. And Israel must keep hitting the heart of the regime — precisely and morally.”

“Let this be the moment the world stood with the Iranian people — not in sympathy, but in action.”