Trump Backs Possibility of Political Change in Iran
US President Donald Trump on Friday expressed support for the idea of regime change in Iran, saying it “would be the best thing that could happen.” He made the remarks after visiting Fort Bragg in North Carolina.
For nearly five decades, Trump said, Iranian leaders have continued negotiations without meaningful results. He argued that prolonged tensions have cost many lives. “We’ve been going on for a long time. So let’s see what happens,” he told reporters.
When asked who he would want to lead Iran, Trump declined to provide details. “I don’t want to talk about that. There are people,” he said.
US Expands Military Presence in the Region
Meanwhile, Trump confirmed that the United States has strengthened its military presence in the Middle East. He noted that additional forces and aircraft carriers have deployed to the region.
“If we don’t make a deal, we’ll need it,” Trump said, referring to a “very big force” prepared for potential action. However, he added that if an agreement is reached, the forces could withdraw quickly.
Local media reports state that the USS Gerald R. Ford will deploy to the Middle East to support the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group.
Nuclear Talks and Key Disputes
Earlier this month, the United States and Iran resumed indirect talks in Muscat, Oman, with Omani officials acting as mediators. The discussions focused on Iran’s nuclear program.
The meeting marked the first round of talks since tensions escalated in June 2025, when the US carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during a surge in conflict between Iran and Israel.
Although negotiations have resumed, major disagreements remain. The United States demands that Iran halt uranium enrichment and transfer its highly enriched uranium outside the country. In addition, Washington wants to include Iran’s missile program and its support for regional armed groups in the talks.
However, Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that they will limit negotiations strictly to nuclear issues.
Conditions to Avoid Military Action
Trump said Iran can prevent US military action by agreeing to what he described as “the right deal.” He emphasized that Washington does not want Iran to continue uranium enrichment.
“I will say they want to talk. But so far, they do a lot of talking and no action,” Trump stated.
As discussions continue, the United States maintains its expanded military presence in the region while pressing for a comprehensive agreement.