Washington
U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing a range of options against Iran, including targeted strikes on Iranian security forces and senior leaders, aimed at encouraging renewed public protests, according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions. The deliberations come amid heightened tensions following a violent crackdown on nationwide demonstrations earlier this month.
Two U.S. sources said the president has expressed interest in creating conditions that could lead to what officials privately described as regime change, after Iranian authorities moved forcefully to suppress protests that erupted across the country. The crackdown reportedly resulted in the deaths of thousands of people, drawing international condemnation and renewed scrutiny of Tehran’s internal security apparatus.
The options under consideration are said to be limited and precise, focusing on symbolic and operational targets within Iran’s security structure rather than large-scale military action. The intent, according to the sources, would be to weaken the regime’s ability to control dissent while emboldening protesters who have been silenced in recent weeks.
However, Israeli and Arab officials cautioned that air power alone is unlikely to topple Iran’s clerical rulers. They stressed that while military pressure could damage key institutions or signal international resolve, it would not automatically translate into sustained internal unrest capable of bringing down the regime. Several regional officials noted that Iran’s leadership has historically demonstrated resilience in the face of external threats, often using them to rally domestic support.
The discussions reflect growing frustration within the Trump administration over Iran’s response to protests and its broader regional posture. U.S. officials have long accused Tehran of destabilising the Middle East through its support for proxy groups and its actions in neighbouring countries. The recent unrest inside Iran has intensified debates in Washington over whether the moment presents an opportunity to apply sharper pressure.
At the same time, concerns remain over the risks of escalation. Analysts warn that even limited strikes could provoke retaliation by Iran or its allies, potentially dragging the region into a wider conflict. Arab officials, while critical of Iran’s internal repression, have urged caution, warning that instability in Iran could have far-reaching consequences for regional security and energy markets. Publicly, the White House has not confirmed specific military plans, reiterating that all options remain on the table while emphasising support for the Iranian people’s right to peaceful protest. Privately, however, the deliberations underscore a more aggressive tone in U.S. policy toward Tehran.
