Israel's goals are specific: prevent Iran's nuclear program, deny ballistic missile capability, and stop support for terrorist proxies. The US originally shared these goals, but the key issue is the 'day after.' Iran's conditions for ceasefire—US reparations and guarantees—show they don't believe they are defeated.

Victory is either Iran renouncing missile production and terror support, or a popular uprising/coup within the regime. Achieving this requires a long-term, Cold War-like steadfastness, not a quick military conclusion.

The person is less important than the position. If the new leader maintains the goal of destroying Israel, he remains an enemy and legitimate target. A change in regime DNA is almost impossible.

Yes, but it's long-term. After destroying Iran's military infrastructure, a punishing naval blockade could cut off oil exports and imports, causing the regime to wither over a protracted period, leading to overthrow from within.

Northern Israel is becoming uninhabitable due to rocket attacks. Even if the US seeks a ceasefire with Iran, Israel must continue its campaign against Hezbollah until it is decisively defeated and Lebanese government control is restored.

For Israel, there is no choice; we are resilient and in it for the long haul. For the US, if the war ends with Iran controlling the Strait of Hormuz and humbling oil producers and NATO, it will have far-reaching ramifications for American security. Iran will rebuild and threaten the US more imminently later. The time to address the threat is now.