President Trump declared that regime change in Iran had been achieved after a month of U.S.-Israeli attacks killed top leaders including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump claimed Iran's government had moved to a 'third regime' and that negotiators were dealing with 'very reasonable' new leadership.

Trump cited Iran's decision to allow 20 more oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as evidence of progress, calling it a 'sign of respect' to the United States. However, Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed talks are underway. The de facto blockade of the vital oil shipping route has sent prices climbing 56 percent since the conflict began.

Despite Trump's assertions, Iran's pillars of power remain intact with clerics and Revolutionary Guards officers still in control. Hard-liners appear to have consolidated power following the killings, with more radical figures replacing pragmatic leaders. Trump's comments signal a scaling back of objectives in a war that has shown little sign of resolution and continues to disrupt daily life across the Middle East.