Trump Advocates for Iranian Regime Change Amid Military Buildup
U.S. President Donald Trump has openly endorsed the possibility of regime change in Iran, stating it "seems like that would be the best thing that could happen." This declaration came during a military event at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, as the Pentagon dispatched a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, signaling a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid Military Moves
Despite the aggressive military posture, Washington and Tehran are actively pursuing diplomatic channels to resolve the long-standing nuclear dispute. U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to hold negotiations with Iranian representatives in Geneva on Tuesday, with Oman acting as a mediator. Concurrently, they will meet with officials from Russia and Ukraine as part of U.S. efforts to address the conflict in Ukraine.
Trump criticized the prolonged diplomatic talks, remarking, "For 47 years, they’ve been talking and talking and talking. In the meantime, we’ve lost a lot of lives while they talk. Legs blown off, arms blown off, faces blown off. We’ve been going on for a long time." The U.S. insists that nuclear discussions must also cover Iran's ballistic missile program, support for regional armed groups, and human rights issues within the country.
Military Deployment and Strategic Implications
The deployment of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford to join the Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East underscores the U.S. military's preparedness. Trump explained the move, saying, "In case we don’t make a deal, we’ll need it ... if we need it, we’ll have it ready." The Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest carrier, has been operational since June 2025 and recently participated in operations in Venezuela before its abrupt redeployment.
This carrier, equipped with over 75 military aircraft including F-18 Super Hornets and E-2 Hawkeyes, along with advanced radar systems, enhances U.S. capabilities in the region. Supporting ships like the guided missile cruiser Normandy and destroyers such as Thomas Hudner provide comprehensive surface-to-air, surface-to-surface, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Escalating Threats and Regional Fears
Trump has threatened military strikes on Iran if negotiations fail, while Tehran has vowed retaliation, raising concerns about a broader conflict. Last year, the U.S. targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, and when asked about further actions, Trump ominously referred to targeting "the dust" at these sites, adding, "If we do it, that would be the least of the mission, but we probably grab whatever is left."
The complex logistics of moving military assets were highlighted by officials, noting that the Gerald R. Ford will take at least a week to reach the Middle East. With only 11 aircraft carriers in the U.S. arsenal, such deployments are carefully planned, though extensions are common during periods of increased activity. Navy officials have warned that prolonged sea deployments can adversely affect crew morale.
Alternative options, such as sending the carrier Bush, were considered but deemed impractical due to certification requirements and a longer transit time. U.S. Southern Command emphasized its continued focus on countering illicit activities in the Western Hemisphere, even as resources are redirected to the Middle East.
This military buildup occurs against a backdrop of fragile diplomacy, with Iran willing to discuss nuclear program curbs in exchange for sanctions relief but refusing to link the issue to missiles. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for significant geopolitical consequences depending on the outcome of upcoming talks and military posturing.
