
A report stated that potential U.S. military strikes could target specific individuals and even aim for regime change.
Two U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that these are options that have come up in the planning phase if ordered by President Donald Trump. They didn’t specify which individuals might be targeted, but notably, Trump ordered the 2020 strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ elite Quds Force.
Digital has contacted the White House and the Department of Defense for comment.
Trump stated on Friday, when questioned by a reporter at the White House, that he is “considering” a limited military strike on Iran to pressure its leaders into a deal regarding its nuclear program.
Last week, when asked if he desired regime change in Iran, he responded, “Well, it seems that would be the best possible outcome.”
Trump suggested on Thursday about the in talks with Iran, stating that Tehran has no more than “10 to 15 days, essentially at most” to reach an agreement.
He stated, “We will either reach a deal, or it will be unfortunate for them.”
A Middle Eastern source with knowledge of the negotiations told Digital this week that Tehran is aware of how imminent the risk of war feels and is unlikely to deliberately provoke Trump at this point.
However, the source mentioned that Iran cannot accept restrictions on its short-range missile program, characterizing this as a firm red line established by the Supreme Leader.
Iranian negotiators are not permitted to cross that boundary, and yielding on missiles would be internally regarded as equivalent to losing a war.
The source suggested there might be more flexibility regarding uranium enrichment parameters if sanctions relief is involved.
’ Emma Bussey and Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.