Trump's regime change fantasies never stood a chance
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- Trump told Iranians to “take over your government” after the death of Iran’s supreme leader, claiming it was their only chance for generations.
- Iran’s pro‑US support dropped from 26.5% before the 2018 JCPOA withdrawal to 14.3% afterward, according to 15 pooled polls from 2014‑2024.
- Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed to Iranians during the twelve‑day war, urging them to seize the moment for freedom.
- Hormuz Strait closure by Iran delayed Indian shipments, highlighting the economic fallout of US‑Iran tensions.
- Heritage Foundation hosted Trump’s 2018 speech outlining “unprecedented financial pressure” on Iran, reflecting the administration’s belief that sanctions could trigger popular uprising.
Why it matters: Pro‑US sentiment in Iran fell to 14.3% after the JCPOA exit, stripping the Trump administration of a supposed popular base and emboldening hard‑liners, pushing US policy toward more costly sanctions and military posturing.
