NEW YORK (VINnews) — As tensions remain high between Iran, Israel and the United States, Israel’s international spokesman to the United Nations, Jonathan Harounoff, says the world must draw a distinction between the Iranian people and the Islamic Republic that governs them.

Speaking with Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, Harounoff, a British-Iranian journalist and author, described Iran’s ruling regime as one focused on preserving its revolutionary ideology rather than improving the lives of its citizens.

Harounoff pointed to widespread unrest in Iran and argued that many Iranians continue to oppose the government despite harsh repression. He highlighted the role of the Women, Life, Freedom movement and praised the courage of citizens who have challenged restrictions and demanded greater freedoms.

The author of Unveiled: Inside Iran’s Woman, Life, Freedom Revolt also warned that Tehran often uses negotiations to advance broader strategic goals while maintaining its long-term regional ambitions.

Harounoff urged Western governments to provide greater support to Iranian civil society and to engage more closely with members of the Iranian diaspora, whom he said can offer valuable insight into conditions inside the country.

Despite ongoing tensions, Harounoff expressed optimism about Iran’s future, saying the country’s educated population, entrepreneurial spirit and rich history could help transform both Iran and the broader Middle East if political change eventually takes place.