Sources: Trump Considers Military Strikes on Iran to Incite Popular Protests

Multiple sources reported that US President Donald Trump is considering options for dealing with Iran, including launching targeted strikes on security forces and leaders to encourage protesters to act, while Israeli and Arab officials said that air strikes alone would not overthrow the religious rulers in Tehran.

Sources familiar with the discussions stated that Trump wants to create conditions for "regime change" after authorities suppressed a nationwide protest movement this month, resulting in thousands of deaths. To achieve this, Trump is considering options to target leaders and institutions that Washington holds responsible for the violence, to give protesters confidence to act on the ground.

The sources indicated that Trump has not yet made a final decision, but options also include broader strikes targeting ballistic missiles and uranium enrichment programs. The arrival of a US aircraft carrier and accompanying warships in the Middle East this week has enhanced the US administration's ability to take immediate military action.

For their part, Arab officials and Western diplomats expressed concern that these strikes might weaken the protest movement rather than strengthen it. Analysts warned that the absence of a clear alternative to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei could lead to the Revolutionary Guard taking full control, exacerbating regional and nuclear crises.

In the context of regional coordination, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman informed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that Riyadh would not allow the use of its airspace or territory for military operations against Tehran, amid Gulf concerns about Iranian reactions that could target vital facilities in neighboring countries.

On the internal Iranian front, reports indicate that Khamenei (86 years old) has reduced his public appearances, while the daily management of affairs has shifted to figures loyal to the Revolutionary Guard. In contrast, Tehran insists that its nuclear program is peaceful, affirming its readiness for dialogue while vowing unprecedented self-defense if attacked.