US President Donald Trump on Friday openly backed the idea of regime change in Iran and warned of growing American military power in the Middle East, as the Pentagon moved a second aircraft carrier into the region amid strained nuclear diplomacy.
Read More: Trump weighs strikes to boost Iran protests
Speaking after a military event at Fort Bragg, Trump said replacing Iran’s leadership “seems like that would be the best thing that could happen,” while declining to identify potential successors. His remarks came as Washington and Tehran pursue renewed talks on Iran’s nuclear programme.
WASHINGTON, D.C — President Donald Trump said Friday that a change in power in Iran “would be the best thing that could happen” as the U.S. administration weighs whether to take military action against Tehran.
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— The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) February 14, 2026
A source told Reuters that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to meet Iranian representatives in Geneva on Tuesday, with Oman mediating. The envoys are also scheduled to hold separate talks with Russian and Ukrainian officials on efforts to end the Ukraine war.
Trump has warned of possible strikes if no agreement is reached, while Iran has pledged retaliation, raising fears of wider conflict. Washington wants any nuclear deal to cover Iran’s ballistic missiles and regional alliances, conditions Tehran has rejected, saying talks should focus solely on sanctions relief in exchange for nuclear limits.
In parallel with the diplomatic push, US defence officials confirmed that the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford will deploy to join the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group already in the Middle East. Trump said the additional deployment was precautionary: “In case we don’t make a deal, we’ll need it.”
Read More: Iran army chief warns US, Israel against attack
The Ford, the US Navy’s newest and largest carrier, carries more than 75 aircraft and advanced radar systems. Officials said it could take at least a week to reach the region. Analysts note that maintaining two carriers in the area signals heightened readiness, even as diplomatic channels remain open.