If large numbers of Iranians return to the streets, Israeli officials say “the people will get slaughtered” because the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran’s principal military force, “has the upper hand,” according to the cable. Despite the grim forecast, Israeli officials said they hoped for a popular revolt and urged the United States to prepare to support protesters if that happens, according to the cable. Other Israeli officials have said the assault on Iran is a success even if a popular uprising doesn’t materialize. Suzanne Maloney, an Iran expert and vice president at the Brookings Institution, said the vulnerability of Iran’s unarmed protesters should be a consideration for U.S. and Israeli officials. “That really badly informed assumption is interesting given how impressive Israeli intelligence penetration of Iran has been,” she said.

Source: Washington Post March 18, 2026 19:58 UTC