US plan at 'advanced stage': Targeting Iranian leaders, regime change weighed, says US official

The Trump administration is reportedly advancing plans that may involve targeting key Iranian leaders and considering regime change in Iran, according to a senior U.S. official. This development comes in the wake of President Trump's recent statements regarding a potential limited military strike against Iran, following a significant increase in U.S. naval forces in the Middle East. The administration aims to exert pressure on Tehran to negotiate a deal that would restrict its nuclear program. The strategic military buildup is part of a broader effort to address concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence. These actions reflect the ongoing tension between the U.S. and Iran, particularly following the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018. As the situation evolves, the implications for regional stability and international relations remain a critical focus for policymakers and analysts alike.