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US-Israeli War on Iran: Potential for Regime Change

3/9/2026

Center

Asadzade Analyzes Iran

Peyman Asadzade of Harvard says the US-Israeli war on Iran could trigger regime change or a pragmatic successor to Khamenei.
Analysts remain divided on implications, as a hard-line leader could emerge, increasing brutality and isolation.
The Revolutionary Guards, designated a terrorist organization by the European Union, hold significant power and may show divisions.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's apology has sparked debate about fractures in Tehran's leadership.

Right

Trump Escalates Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump continues a military campaign against Iran after Ayatollah Khamenei's assassination.
Experts warn an air campaign alone cannot achieve regime change without ground forces.
Speculation about deploying U.S. troops has grown after the 82nd Airborne Division training cancellation.
Despite strikes against Iranian leadership, Revolutionary Guard units remain active, launching attacks across the region.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, leading to the establishment of an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This transition marked the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, which gained significant power. The revolution's aftermath saw political purges and the Iran-Iraq War, shaping Iran's current geopolitical tensions and internal conflicts, including recent threats to leadership stability.

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Asadzade Analyzes Iran

Peyman Asadzade of Harvard says the US-Israeli war on Iran could trigger regime change or a pragmatic successor to Khamenei.
Analysts remain divided on implications, as a hard-line leader could emerge, increasing brutality and isolation.
The Revolutionary Guards, designated a terrorist organization by the European Union, hold significant power and may show divisions.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's apology has sparked debate about fractures in Tehran's leadership.

1 / 3