But, says BBC Persian, at the same time there appears to be a sense of relief - even celebration - among those who believe the regime's downfall can only come through military intervention. In one ...

The Israeli PM gave a televised address after a day of attacks on Iran, and retaliation from Tehran across the Middle East. Satellite images earlier showed damage to Khamenei's compound.

Apparent Iranian attacks have been reported in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Kuwait, and elsewhere in the region. Earlier, Donald Trump said "major combat operations" were under way in Iran.

US President Donald Trump has called for regime change in Iran and said "major combat operations" are under way.