Trump Eyes Khamenei Assassination

President Trump’s Pentagon briefs him on assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei while diplomats float “token” nuclear enrichment, exposing a high-stakes dual track that could end the regime’s nuclear threat—or ignite war.

Story Snapshot

Trump faces military options targeting Khamenei and son Mojtaba amid stalled nuclear talks, signaling regime change on the table.
Iran rejects zero enrichment demands; Araghchi promises proposal in 2-3 days as U.S./Israel signal strikes possible this weekend.
Trump’s 10-15 day ultimatum holds; administration views Tehran’s moves as distractions from core concessions on missiles and terror support.
Historical maximum pressure campaign resumes post-JCPOA exit, prioritizing U.S. security over weak Obama-era deals.
Potential token enrichment deal offers slim diplomatic out, but regime’s intransigence threatens American interests and allies like Israel.

Dual-Track Strategy Emerges

President Trump receives Pentagon briefings on military strikes targeting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his son Mojtaba. This occurs alongside negotiations where envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner push for zero uranium enrichment. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claims no zero-enrichment demand arose in Geneva talks. Senior U.S. officials counter that token enrichment might suffice if Iran proves no weapons intent. The approach maintains flexibility while pressuring Tehran to abandon nuclear ambitions that threaten U.S. allies and global stability. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly emphasizes only Trump decides next steps. This reflects Trump’s resolve to prevent Iranian nuclear weapons, unlike past failed diplomacy.

Timeline of Escalation and Deadlock

Trump issued a 10-15 day ultimatum on February 20, 2026, demanding a nuclear deal or facing consequences. Khamenei rejected conditions on February 17, threatening the U.S. Navy. Araghchi announced Iran’s proposal finalization within two to three days on February 21. U.S. and Israeli officials warn action could start as early as the weekend. Negotiations stall over Iran’s refusal to dismantle enrichment facilities, limit missiles, or end terror support. Trump cites 32,000 protester deaths under the regime, sympathizing with Iranians enduring oppression. This compressed timeline underscores the regime’s gamesmanship against American strength.

Historical context traces to Trump’s 2018 JCPOA withdrawal and 2025 maximum pressure reinstatement. A 60-day deadline passed without agreement. Iran insists on enrichment rights and sanctions relief with economic benefits. Regional tensions rise with Israel’s finalized attack plans alongside U.S. forces. IAEA Director Raphael Grossi proposes technical safeguards for any peaceful program.

Regime’s Intransigence and U.S. Leverage

Iran’s core positions remain fixed: no zero enrichment, no infrastructure dismantling, no missile curbs, no terror cessation. Fox News expert Behnam Ben Taleblu calls Tehran’s efforts distractions to deter strikes, undermine dissidents, and gain sanctions relief. Trump administration advisors note growing U.S. military presence bolsters negotiating power, urging patience. Trump publicly prefers a fair deal but keeps military readiness. Araghchi appeared on Morning Joe refuting temporary halt proposals, focusing on peaceful program assurances for relief. Contradictions persist on enrichment demands, highlighting deliberate ambiguity to force concessions from a weakened foe.

U.S. Rejects Tehran's Latest Deal and All Signs Suggest That Regime Change Is on Trump's Agenda https://t.co/3uZfeH7igx

— Dal Garber (@dal_garber) February 21, 2026

Stakeholders include Trump as ultimate decider, Khamenei enforcing red lines, and Israel demanding acceptable terms. Pentagon options extend beyond nuclear sites to leadership decapitation. Gulf nations watch closely as outcomes affect regional security. Iranian civilians suffer sanctions and potential upheaval, while U.S. forces brace for retaliation. Global oil markets risk disruption from any escalation.

Implications for Security and Stability

Short-term military action risks Iranian strikes on U.S. bases, allies, and oil routes, spiking prices. Regime change via targeting Khamenei could spark civil war and proxy chaos, departing from nuclear focus but liberating oppressed Iranians. Token enrichment deal demands rigorous verification to prevent cheating, aligning with conservative demands for strength over appeasement. Long-term, success deters rogue states; failure echoes Biden-era weakness. Experts like Richard Haass question necessity absent new threats, yet Iran’s defiance justifies firm response protecting American liberty and allies. Trump’s strategy prioritizes victory over endless talks.