Recently, there’s been a lot of talk about the unrest in Iran and what actions the United States might take in response. It’s evident that the Iranian regime is experiencing its most vulnerable state since 1979. We seem to be at a pivotal moment that could shape history for many years ahead.
To understand how we got here, let’s backtrack a bit. Following the attacks on October 7, Israel was determined not to let history repeat itself and took significant measures against the terrorist networks responsible. With help from the U.S., Israel has managed to cripple not just Iran’s nuclear initiatives but also its missile capabilities and overall military readiness. It’s somewhat ironic that the very events following October 7 have weakened Iran so much, but they also highlight a glimmer of hope stemming from such a tragic occurrence.
A massive factor contributing to the current situation has been the millions of Iranians who have taken to the streets. Daily life in Iran is tough, with minimal prospects for economic growth, and the future looks rather grim as long as the current regime remains intact. The courage shown by the protesters, alongside the military pressure applied by Israel and the U.S., has pushed this regime to its limits.
The big question now is, where do we head from here? President Donald Trump appears to have two paths in mind: a diplomatic approach and a military one. While engaging in diplomatic negotiations is always worth a try, my hope leans more toward regime change. This change could occur in one of two ways: either the regime alters its course—which seems improbable—or the Iranian populace rises to take the reins following the regime’s collapse.
For those who are against regime change, I have to ask: why would you want the continuation of this regime? The Ayatollah and his affiliates have brutally suppressed protests, inflicted violence on women for their attire, and fostered a long history of state-sponsored terrorism. It’s hard to imagine who would favor keeping such a regime in power. Certainly, I don’t, nor do many Iranians. The demand for change is coming from the people, and that’s where our support should lie.
When the world media questioned him about the Iranian protesters’ next steps, President Trump confidently told them, “Keep protesting. Help is on the way.” That sentiment resonates well with the situation, and should the regime collapse, it would mark a historical moment.
President Trump’s backing of the protesters, alongside the U.S. display of might in Operation Midnight Hammer, creates a tremendous opening for peace and prosperity in a region that hasn’t seen it in over a millennium. After the current government is replaced, there could be a chance for normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel again. The Iranians will be able to chart their own destiny, and the influence of terrorist organizations in the area, like Hezbollah and Hamas, will likely diminish. Just last week, during my visit to Israel, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia—three nations contending with Iran’s threats—I confirmed that these scenarios are not just wishful thinking but very achievable and beneficial for the U.S. and its allies.
Yet, we must remember who we may have to deal with if this regime persists. Leading the way is the Ayatollah, a religious fanatic who even attempted to orchestrate an assassination against President Trump. His chants of “death to America” and to Jews are not mere rhetoric; he genuinely means it. If he remains after the chaos, I worry that future regional issues could plague the U.S. and the area for a long time.
Considering the fate of millions rests in the balance, I sincerely hope President Trump will make one of the most pivotal decisions of any president. He has a reputation of keeping his word. While he doesn’t want to engage in perpetual wars, he’s not averse to using military force when it’s necessary.
I firmly believe that history is watching our every move. If we make an effort to support the protesters, we might witness a defining moment of the 21st century. Just like Ronald Reagan’s stance against communism resulted in new freedoms after the Soviet Union fell, a similar wave of change could take place if the Ayatollahs were to fall.
The downfall of the Ayatollahs would likely trigger a series of transformations across the Middle East. All their terrorist proxies could be dismantled, the Abraham Accords might experience substantial expansion, and normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel could rise again. Ultimately, the Iranian populace would attain the freedom that every human seeks. The ramifications of this regime’s collapse would ripple throughout the region and indeed the world.
What happens next remains to be seen. For now, we should act thoughtfully yet decisively.
