Iran: Regime Change in Focus After Attacks

The issue of a potential "regime change" in Iran has resurfaced following attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and statements by Donald Trump. While the US asserts its goal is to neutralize Iran's nuclear capabilities, Israel suggests the regime's collapse is a possible side effect.

US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible regime change through social media statements, sparking speculation about Washington's intentions. However, senior US officials, such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance, stated that military operations aim to neutralize Iran's nuclear capabilities, not to change the regime.

From Israel's side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu implied that regime change could be a likely outcome of Israel's military operations, although not the primary goal. On June 18-19, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the army had been ordered to "undermine the Ayatollah regime" in Tehran.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, responded that the regime would not fall and that Iran would defend itself. The European Union called for restraint, emphasizing that regime change is not part of the EU's agreed position.

The Iranian opposition remains divided, with some viewing Prince Reza Pahlavi as a potential leader. An article in Foreign Affairs argues that regime change is feasible through pressure and support for the internal opposition, without military intervention.