Israel, US early war goals sought to reinstate Iran's Ahmadinejad as leader, NYT report says
An associate of Ahmadinejad told the NYT that the Americans viewed Mr. Ahmadinejad as someone who could lead Iran and manage “Iran’s political, social, and military situation.”
Assessment
This NYT report claims that early in the war, the US and Israel sought to reinstate Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as Iran's leader. An associate of Ahmadinejad says Americans viewed him as capable of managing Iran's political, social, and military affairs. The report suggests regime change was a direct war goal, not merely a long-term aspiration. Official reactions from all parties are now needed.