Although the United States and Israel attacked Iran jointly, Washington still has not achieved its core objective. On February 28, 2026, American and Israeli forces launched a coordinated strike on Iran.
During that assault, Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei and other top leaders lost their lives. Moreover, missile and drone strikes targeted key leadership positions.
However, despite the destruction, President Donald Trump has not secured his primary goal.
Why Did Trump Order The Attack?
According to developments, Trump aimed for regime change in Iran. Therefore, Washington sought to remove Khamenei from power.
Earlier, Trump claimed the conflict would last only four days. However, he now speaks about four weeks, which signals extended confrontation.
Previously, the United States attempted dialogue with Tehran. Furthermore, Washington tried to pressure and intimidate Khamenei into submission.
Nevertheless, Khamenei refused to bend before American demands. Consequently, the US decided to eliminate him.
Before the strike, Washington encouraged protests inside Iran through Reza Pahlavi. Additionally, American leadership wanted a government aligned with its own interests.
Nuclear Concerns Drove Washington’s Strategy
Besides regime change, another motive shaped US actions. Specifically, Washington wanted to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power.
Although Tehran never officially declared nuclear weapon development, intelligence suggested hidden activities. Therefore, the US intensified pressure.
Since Khamenei’s administration rejected American conditions, Washington escalated its approach. Ultimately, planners executed the military operation with full preparation.
Iran Retaliates With Force
Meanwhile, Tehran responded strongly to the joint assault. In retaliation, Iranian forces targeted American military installations.
As a result, three US soldiers died in Iranian attacks. Additionally, strikes damaged an American airbase in the Middle East.
Furthermore, Iran vowed revenge for Khamenei’s killing. Consequently, authorities continued counterattacks against US positions in the region.
Regime Change Still Out Of Reach
Although Washington eliminated its long-time adversary, regime transformation has not occurred. Instead, Khamenei supporters still hold power in Tehran.
Moreover, Iran continues strategic retaliation beyond American expectations. Therefore, Trump’s original plan remains incomplete.
Initially, the US predicted a rapid resolution within four days. However, the extension to four weeks reveals unexpected resistance.
Consequently, Washington faces continued setbacks. Ultimately, developments from Iran still bring troubling news for the United States.
