Fact Check: Trump hints at welcoming regime change in Iran after US air strikes
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, following U.S. military strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of regime change in Iran. In a post on Truth Social, he stated, “If the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change???” This statement appeared to contradict earlier assertions from his administration, particularly from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who emphasized that the strikes were not aimed at regime change but rather at deterring Iran's nuclear ambitions (AP News, Reuters).
The U.S. military operation, dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer,” targeted key nuclear facilities in Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, and was described as a significant success by U.S. officials (AP News). While Trump’s comments suggested a shift towards a more aggressive stance, they also raised concerns about escalating tensions in the region (New York Times).
Analysis
Trump's remarks about regime change in Iran come at a time of heightened military action and diplomatic tension. His statement can be interpreted as an attempt to leverage the recent military success to reshape the narrative around U.S.-Iran relations. While Hegseth and other officials maintained that the strikes were not aimed at regime change, Trump's social media post indicates a willingness to entertain that possibility, which could further complicate diplomatic efforts (Reuters, New York Times).
The credibility of the sources reporting on this incident varies. The Associated Press and Reuters, both reputable news organizations, provided detailed accounts of the events and included multiple perspectives, making their reporting reliable. In contrast, some commentary from less established outlets may reflect bias or sensationalism, particularly in the context of U.S. foreign policy, which often elicits strong opinions (AP News, Washington Post).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump hinted at welcoming regime change in Iran after U.S. air strikes is True. His statement on social media directly suggests a shift in policy perspective, contrasting with his administration's official stance that the military action was not intended to instigate regime change. This inconsistency highlights the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations and the potential for escalating conflict in the region.
Sources
- Trump is open to regime change in Iran, after his administration said ...
- US warns against Iran retaliation as Trump raises 'regime ...
- Live Updates: As Allies Call for Diplomacy, Trump Raises Prospect of ...
- Live Updates: Trump Claims Success After U.S. Bombs ...
- Strikes on Iran mark Trump's biggest, and riskiest, foreign policy ...
- Iran says 'all options' on table; bigger conflict may threaten ...
- Trump says key Iranian nuclear facilities ...
- U.S. launches strikes on 3 Iranian nuclear facilities, Trump says
