Trump Weighs Military Options to Spark ‘Regime Change’ in Iran, Sources Say

by | Jan 29, 2026 | News

U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing military options aimed at creating conditions for “regime change” in Iran, according to multiple U.S. officials familiar with the discussions.

Sources say Trump is considering targeted strikes against Iranian security forces and leadership figures in response to a violent crackdown on nationwide protests earlier this month, which reportedly left thousands dead. The goal, officials say, would be to weaken the regime and embolden protesters to challenge government control.

Options under review reportedly include limited strikes on commanders and institutions blamed for the violence, as well as broader military action that could target Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities or nuclear enrichment facilities.

Officials caution that no final decision has been made. One source emphasized that Trump has not yet determined whether to pursue a military course of action or continue applying pressure through other means.

The recent arrival of a U.S. aircraft carrier and accompanying warships in the Middle East has expanded Washington’s military options, following repeated warnings from Trump that the United States could intervene if Iran continued its crackdown.

Israeli and Arab officials, however, have expressed skepticism that air power alone could topple Iran’s clerical leadership, warning that regime change would likely require sustained internal pressure.

The discussions mark a significant escalation in rhetoric and planning as the administration weighs how far it is willing to go amid growing instability inside Iran.

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