Donald Trump’s large-scale military strikes on Iran have escalated Middle East tensions, raising questions about regime change, regional stability and U.S. long-term strategy.

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• President Donald Trump launched large-scale airstrikes on Iran, calling the operation a decisive move to eliminate ballistic missile threats and nuclear ambitions.
• Trump announced that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed, though there was no immediate confirmation from Tehran authorities.
• The operation, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” could become the largest U.S. military campaign since wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
• Analysts warn the strikes risk escalating into a broader regional conflict, potentially destabilizing oil-rich Middle Eastern nations hosting U.S. military bases.
• Trump has openly advocated regime change in Tehran, suggesting air power could trigger a popular uprising against Iran’s clerical leadership.
• Experts argue that outside airstrikes alone have historically failed to topple entrenched governments without sustained ground involvement or internal armed resistance.
• Iran retaliated by launching missiles toward Israel and Gulf states, intensifying fears of prolonged military confrontation across the region.
• Critics question the strategic clarity behind the strikes, warning of political risks ahead of U.S. midterm elections and growing domestic economic concerns.