Two U.S. officials have revealed that military planning related to Iran includes options that could target specific individuals and potentially pursue regime change, if ordered by President Donald Trump.
The officials, reportedly speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, did not identify which individuals might be targeted.
The report comes as President Trump said Friday that he is “considering” a limited military strike on Iran aimed at pressuring Tehran into reaching an agreement over its nuclear program.
“I guess I can say, I am considering that,” Trump said during remarks at the White House.
A Narrowing Diplomatic Window
On Thursday, President Trump suggested negotiations may be nearing a breaking point, stating Iran has no more than “10, 15 days, pretty much maximum” to reach a deal.
“We’re either going to get a deal, or it’s going to be unfortunate for them,” he said.
When previously asked whether he supported regime change in Iran, Trump responded:
“Well, it seems like that would be the best thing that could happen.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. has been building its military presence in the region.
The USS Gerald R. Ford is heading toward the Middle East, joining other naval assets already deployed.
The Soleimani Precedent
The possibility of targeting specific individuals recalls the 2020 strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Quds Force.
The Pentagon stated at the time that President Trump authorized the strike in Iraq.
The operation significantly escalated tensions but did not lead to a broader war between the two countries.
Analysts have noted that the strike demonstrated Washington’s willingness to act directly against senior Iranian leadership.
Iran’s Stated Red Lines
A Middle Eastern source cited by Fox News said that limits on Iran’s short-range missile program remain “a firm red line set by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.”
Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, while Western governments have raised concerns about uranium enrichment levels and missile development.
The administration has framed its approach as a combination of diplomacy backed by credible deterrence, rather than diplomacy alone.
Diplomatic and Military Tracks
The administration’s posture reflects a strategy of maintaining diplomatic engagement while preparing military contingencies.
Officials have indicated that negotiations remain open, but the timeline outlined by President Trump suggests pressure is increasing.
Reuters reported that planning discussions have included a range of military options, though no final decision has been announced.
Fox News reported that it reached out to the White House and the Department of Defense for comment.
The next several weeks are expected to determine whether negotiations produce a breakthrough or whether the administration moves toward more forceful measures.
READ MORE – Trump ‘Considering’ Limited Military Strike to Pressure Iran into Nuclear Deal
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