Washington, DC — US Senator Lindsey Graham has called on President Donald Trump to pursue a hardline approach against the Islamic Republic of Iran, urging that the US should aim to topple the Iranian regime rather than engage in negotiations. Graham argued that real peace in the Middle East will begin only with the collapse of Iran’s current leadership, and he emphasized the need for stronger actions to support Iranian protesters and weaken Tehran’s authority.
Taliban Mismanagement Poses Risks
Graham stressed that diplomatic negotiations alone are unlikely to change Iran’s behavior, especially given the government’s ongoing crackdown on demonstrators and refusal to implement meaningful reforms. He told Fox News that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei will never be a friend of the United States and that stability requires a fundamental change in Iran’s leadership.
Support for Iranian People
The senator framed his position as support for the Iranian population, arguing that US policy must do more than talk it must actively challenge the regime described as “bloody and oppressive.” He emphasized that aiding protesters and opposing the clerical government aligns with US strategic and moral interests.
Critics Warn Against Escalation
Graham’s call for regime change comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran following widespread protests in Iran, which have been met with harsh government crackdowns. Critics warn that such rhetoric could increase regional instability and the risk of conflict, though Graham maintains that passive or purely diplomatic strategies have failed to curb Iran’s regional influence and human rights abuses.
