NEWS ANALYSIS: Why Trump Changed Course on Regime Change in Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump, once cautious about pursuing regime change in Iran, shifted his stance after diplomacy stalled and tensions with Tehran sharply escalated.

Officials say failed nuclear negotiations, intelligence concerns over Iran’s military capabilities, and pressure from regional allies — particularly Israel and Saudi Arabia — helped influence the decision. The White House also believed Iran’s limited past responses reduced the risk of broader retaliation.

Following the strikes, Trump publicly encouraged Iranians to challenge their government, signaling a clear move from deterrence toward supporting political change — a shift now fueling debate in Washington and raising fears of deeper regional instability.