WASHINGTON D.C., March 6, 2026 – In a press briefing amid the ongoing U.S. military campaign dubbed Operation Epic Fury against Iran, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the strategic importance of regime change in Tehran, citing the current Iranian government’s alleged terrorist activities and nuclear ambitions.
Speaking from the White House grounds, Leavitt stated: “As for the future of Iran, as the president has pointed to. Of course it’s in the best interest of the United States of America for Iran to no longer be led by a radical terrorist regime that chants ‘Death to America,’ and is lying to the United States and the world about their secret ambitions to possess a nuclear bomb.”
The remarks come as U.S. forces continue targeted strikes under Operation Epic Fury, a operation launched in response to escalating tensions with Iran, including reported proxy attacks on American interests in the Middle East. The briefing was broadcast live on Newsmax, with a ticker highlighting related developments: Senator Marco Rubio reportedly informed Arab ministers that the conflict could last “weeks,” while the House of Representatives narrowly rejected a resolution to limit presidential war powers against Iran, marking an early win for President Trump’s strategy.
Leavitt further noted that President Trump is actively deliberating on Iran’s post-conflict leadership. “President Trump does not want to see that. He wants to take an interest in pursuing who the next leader of the Iranian country is going to be, and that has yet to be seen,” she said, adding that discussions are ongoing.
The clip of Leavitt’s comments, posted by the official White House account on X (formerly Twitter), has garnered significant attention, with over 236,000 views and thousands of engagements. Reactions in the replies largely focused on calls for regime change, with many users voicing support for Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last Shah, as a potential leader for a democratic transition. One reply from user @nikita5658jh read: “Listen to the voice of the Iranian people inside and outside Iran, our representative for planning elections and governing the country is Prince Reza Pahlavi. #KingRezaPahlavi”
Other responses highlighted concerns over the war’s implications. User @TTEcclesBrown commented: “Iran is not a threat to us, they are only a threat to Israel. This whole thing is for Israel.” Meanwhile, pro-Pahlavi sentiments dominated, with posts emphasizing his pro-U.S. and pro-Israel stance and readiness for a transitional government.
Operation Epic Fury represents a bold escalation in U.S.-Iran relations under the Trump administration, following years of sanctions and diplomatic standoffs. Details on the operation’s scope remain classified, but it has drawn international scrutiny, with allies in the region expressing cautious support.
The White House has not provided further details on potential successors to the current Iranian regime, but Leavitt’s comments signal a hands-on approach to shaping Iran’s future governance. As the conflict unfolds, analysts expect continued updates on military progress and diplomatic efforts.
About The Author
