The Trump administration sent out mixed messages to Iran on Sunday. While some officials showed interest in restarting talks after the airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, President Donald Trump hinted at possible regime change.

On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “It’s not politically correct to use the term ‘Regime Change’, but if the current Iranian regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a regime change??? MIGA!!!”

This statement directly contradicted what Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had said earlier. In a press conference Sunday morning, Hegseth explained the military operation and made it clear, “This mission was not and has not been about regime change.”

Mixed Messaging Creates Confusion

Throughout the day, the US administration appeared to send two different messages. On one hand, it issued tough warnings and praised the success of the bombing operation. On the other hand, it kept the door open for renewed diplomacy with Iran.

This split message has created confusion. It is unclear whether Trump is trying to pressure Iran into talks or is unintentionally pushing the region toward a broader conflict, especially one that could involve Israel.

Before Trump’s social media post, top officials, including Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Hegseth, the Secretary of State, and military leaders, had all suggested that the fallout from the strikes could be controlled. They expressed confidence that Iran’s limited military power would eventually force it back to negotiations.

US Officials Say They Don’t Want War

In his briefing, Hegseth emphasized that the US wants to avoid open conflict. He said the United States “does not seek war” with Iran.

Vice President JD Vance added that the strikes offered Iran a chance to return to talks with Washington. The administration seemed to hope that military pressure would drive Iran to the negotiating table rather than fuel a larger war.

Iran’s Possible Response Could Escalate Crisis

However, Iran still holds powerful options. Experts warn that Tehran could retaliate in ways that could worsen the crisis across the Middle East. Some of the possible moves include:

• Blocking oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz

• Attacking US military bases in the region

• Launching cyber-attacks

• Speeding up its nuclear program

The last option, in particular, could gain support inside Iran following the US airstrikes, as leaders there may see nuclear weapons as essential for defense.

Now, the world is watching to see whether the situation will turn into a deeper conflict or shift toward new diplomacy out of fear of escalation.

Trump Targets Political Rivals Over Military Action

Back home, the strikes also became part of domestic politics. Trump used his Truth Social account to attack critics in Congress.

On Saturday night, he had addressed the nation from the White House. Then on Sunday, he criticized Representative Thomas Massie, who had accused Trump of acting without congressional approval.

Trump defended the operation in his post, writing, “We had a spectacular military success yesterday, taking the bomb right out of their hands (and they would use it if they could!)”

Pentagon Reveals Details of “Operation Midnight Hammer”

At a joint Pentagon briefing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stood alongside Air Force General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. They shared more information about the airstrikes, which they named “Operation Midnight Hammer.”

General Caine said the mission used decoys and deception tactics and faced no resistance from Iranian forces.

He confirmed that the operation targeted three nuclear sites—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—and that the mission had succeeded.
“Final battle damage assessments will take time, but initial indications show all three sites sustained extremely severe damage and destruction,” he said.