In the wake of the United States’ precision airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, former President Donald Trump on Sunday hinted at a possible “regime change” in Tehran, reigniting debate over Washington’s long-term strategy toward the Islamic Republic.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump questioned the competence of Iran’s current leadership, writing: “It’s not politically correct to use the term, ‘Regime Change,’ but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!”
The post came a day after the US launched Operation Midnight Hammer, which targeted three major nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. US officials described the damage inflicted as “monumental.”
In another Truth Social post, Trump celebrated the military’s success, saying: “The damage to the Nuclear sites in Iran is said to be ‘monumental.’ The hits were hard and accurate. Great skill was shown by our military.”
He also praised the B-2 bomber pilots involved in the operation, confirming their safe return to Missouri: “Thank you for a job well done!!! DONALD J. TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!”
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth officially confirmed the strikes in a press briefing alongside Air Force General Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
“Last night, on President Trump’s order, the US Central Command conducted precision strikes against three nuclear facilities in Iran—Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz—to destroy or severely degrade Iran’s nuclear program,” Hegseth said.
Calling the mission an “incredible and overwhelming success,” Hegseth emphasized that the operation was designed to damage Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, not to harm Iranian troops or civilians.
“The order we received from our Commander-in-Chief was focused, powerful, and clear. We devastated the Iranian nuclear program,” he added.
However, Hegseth clarified that the strikes were not intended as a move toward regime change: “This operation is not and has not been about regime change. It is about setting back Iran’s nuclear ambitions,” he said, as reported by The Hill.
The developments have drawn international attention, with observers closely monitoring how Iran responds and whether Trump’s remarks will escalate tensions further in the already volatile region.