Trump raises possibility of regime change in Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited speculation about regime change in Iran following American airstrikes on key Iranian military and nuclear sites over the weekend.

“It’s not politically correct to use the term ‘Regime Change,’ but if the current Iranian regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

His comments came amid efforts by top administration officials to frame the strikes as narrowly focused. Vice President JD Vance emphasized the U.S. was “not at war with Iran, we’re at war with Iran’s nuclear program,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed that the U.S. was not seeking full-scale conflict.

Still, Trump doubled down on claims that the U.S. strikes had caused devastating damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, calling it “monumental” and declaring the sites “obliterated.” He cited satellite imagery, though he did not provide any visual evidence. “The biggest damage took place far below ground level. Bullseye!!!” he added.

Iran, Israel Exchange Fire Amid Threats and Retaliation

In what may be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s first response since the U.S. entered the conflict, a social media account linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader posted: “The Zionist enemy has made a grave mistake, committed a great crime; it must be punished and is being punished.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday, where they discussed “common threats.” Speaking earlier in Istanbul, Araghchi ruled out returning to diplomacy until Iran had issued a response to recent attacks.

Meanwhile, Israeli strikes overnight reportedly hit targets in Karaj and Parchin, key military areas near Tehran. Israel later confirmed air raids in Kermanshah, western Iran. Sirens sounded across Israel after Iran launched missiles in response, though no direct hits or injuries were reported.

Strait of Hormuz Closure Looms

Iran’s parliament has reportedly approved a motion to close the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping lane for global oil trade. The final decision lies with the country’s Supreme National Security Council. Closure of the strait, located between Iran and Oman, would threaten international maritime commerce and further escalate regional tensions.

Gaza Toll Rises Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Elsewhere, nine Palestinian civilians were killed late Sunday by an Israeli artillery strike in the Al-Waha area of Gaza, according to Palestinian news agency Wafa. The group had reportedly been waiting for food aid. The report remains unverified, as Israel currently bars foreign journalists from entering Gaza.

Jonathan Whittall, head of the UN’s humanitarian agency in Gaza and the West Bank, cited a “chilling pattern” of Israeli forces firing on crowds attempting to collect aid.

Medical officials in Gaza report that approximately 450 people have been killed and thousands injured over the past 12 days during Israeli strikes targeting aid distribution sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — a controversial Israeli- and U.S.-linked organization.

Global Reaction: Calls for De-escalation

Australia expressed strong support for the U.S. military action. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Canberra backed "any efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons."

Japan, which is heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil, urged restraint. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Tokyo was monitoring developments “with grave concern.”

Worldwide Security Alert for Americans

Amid rising threats, the U.S. State Department issued a “worldwide caution” advisory for American citizens on Sunday. The alert warned that the Middle East conflict could spark anti-U.S. demonstrations and attacks abroad.

“U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution,” the statement said, noting disruptions to travel and airspace closures across the region.

The advisory followed Iran’s warning that any country aiding U.S. military operations would be considered a legitimate target. Ali Akbar Velayati, senior advisor to Ayatollah Khamenei, said, “Any country in the region or elsewhere used by American forces to strike Iran will be treated as a legitimate target.”

The U.S. has begun evacuation flights from Israel for citizens and permanent residents, and has ordered nonessential personnel to leave its embassies in Iraq and Lebanon.