By Amanabo Ocholi | The Bureau News
Washington, D.C. | June 25, 2025
U.S. President Donald Trump has clarified that he does not seek regime change in Iran, two days after suggesting the possibility via social media, a move that sparked debate across the Republican Party and the international community.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to the NATO summit, Trump remarked, “I don’t want it. I’d like to see everything calm down as quickly as possible.”
Trump, often known for his unconventional diplomatic style, acknowledged Iran’s economic potential. “You know the Iranians are very good traders, very good business people and they’ve got a lot of oil. They should be fine. They should be able to rebuild and do a good job,” he said.
Trump Framed as a “Peace President”
Conservative media figure and staunch Trump supporter Charlie Kirk posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Trump is the peace president,” signaling continued support from MAGA loyalists for the former president’s restrained foreign policy stance.
GOP Split on Iran Policy
Despite Trump’s comments, divisions remain within the Republican Party over how to deal with Iran. During a congressional hearing on Tuesday, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), a known Iran hawk and Trump ally, said, “The only way you’re really going to have peace is for the regime to change its behavior, either through personnel or ideology.”
Graham’s remarks underscore the broader debate within the GOP, as some lawmakers push for a tougher approach while others align with Trump’s emphasis on diplomacy and economic engagement.
Background: Iran-US Tensions
The comments come amid escalating US-Iran tensions following drone strikes, cyberattacks, and sanctions disputes. The Biden administration and Trump-aligned Republicans remain sharply divided on how best to deal with Tehran, especially in light of ongoing proxy conflicts in the Middle East.
As the NATO summit unfolds and international focus sharpens on the Persian Gulf, Trump’s remarks may influence both Republican positioning ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation with Iran.
