Washington: Amid intensifying hostilities in West Asia, former US President Donald Trump has claimed that a “regime change” is effectively already in motion within Iran, citing heavy losses among the country’s top leadership during the ongoing war.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump argued that the current power structure in Tehran has been fundamentally altered due to the deaths of key figures and the emergence of new leadership groups. He suggested that the original leadership had been “decimated,” followed by successive layers of leadership also being severely weakened.
The remarks come in the backdrop of sustained military operations involving the United States and Israel, which have reportedly targeted senior officials and critical infrastructure across Iran since late February. The strikes have significantly reshaped the country’s leadership landscape, according to multiple reports.
Trump pointed to the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei—son of the late Ali Khamenei—as evidence of this transition, noting that even newly installed leadership figures have faced heavy casualties. He described the current group in power as “entirely different” from previous regimes and indicated that the US is now dealing with unfamiliar leadership in Tehran.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Trump expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of a diplomatic resolution. He said a deal with Iran remains likely, although not guaranteed, adding that the new leadership appears more “reasonable” compared to its predecessors.
His comments signal a shift in Washington’s narrative—from focusing solely on military pressure to highlighting internal changes within Iran’s leadership. However, analysts caution that such claims may be premature, as the situation on the ground remains fluid and volatile.
The war, which began on February 28, has already resulted in significant casualties and heightened tensions across the region. With no clear end in sight, the evolving political dynamics within Iran are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of the conflict.
