Another endless war? Trump shifts goalpost in Iran war from regime change

US President Donald Trump’s decision to order strikes on Iran has pushed Washington into a fresh and uncertain phase in its foreign policy. Even as military operations continue, the administration’s explanation of what it aims to achieve appears to be evolving.

In the days following the joint US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the tone from the White House began to change. What was initially framed in broader political terms has gradually been recast in more limited, security-focused language. Initial remarks referenced dismantling Iran’s power structure. More recent statements emphasise that the United States is not pursuing regime change, while urging Iranians to “take control” of their future.

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In a formal letter to Congress sent under the War Powers Resolution, Trump said the February 28 strikes were conducted at his direction to protect US forces, defend the American homeland, ensure the free flow of maritime commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, and act in collective self-defence of regional allies, including Israel.

“At my direction, on February 28, 2026, United States forces conducted precision strikes against numerous targets within Iran including ballistic missile sites, maritime mining capabilities, air defenses, and command and control capabilities,” Trump wrote.

He stated that no US ground forces were used and that the operation was designed to minimise civilian casualties, deter future attacks, and neutralise what he described as Iran’s malign activities. He also said he acted pursuant to his constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and shared the report in accordance with the War Powers Resolution.

Shifting emphasis

Before the strikes, Trump warned that Iran was advancing missile and nuclear capabilities that could threaten the United States. After the operation began, officials described the action as necessary to address imminent risks to US personnel and regional stability.

In separate public remarks, however, Trump did not rule out further escalation. “I don’t say there will be no boots on the ground,” he said, adding that ground forces would “probably” not be necessary. He also described the campaign as the country’s “last best chance” to eliminate what he called an intolerable threat.

Trump has spoken about potential successors to Khamenei, though he has not identified any names.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has maintained that the mission is limited in scope and aimed at degrading Iran’s missile network, naval capabilities and nuclear advancement. “This is not Iraq,” he said.

Uncertain duration

The timeline remains unclear. Trump has suggested the operation could conclude quickly, but has also indicated it may last four to five weeks. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine acknowledged that US objectives in Iran could “take some time to achieve.”

Iran responded to the joint American-Israeli strikes by launching ballistic missiles and drones targeting US assets and allies across the region, including Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.

The conflict has resulted in casualties. Six American service members have been killed following Iranian retaliation, and three US fighter jets were lost in what the military described as a friendly fire incident.

Public opinion is cautious. The majority of Americans oppose military action in Iran and expect a long-term conflict.

The question now is: Is this a short, decisive strike, or the beginning of another open-ended war?