Regime change only way to tackle Iran threat, says former US NSA John Bolton

Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has made a strong case for regime change in Iran, arguing that it is the only viable solution to the country’s nuclear, economic and geopolitical threats, while dismissing diplomacy as ineffective.

“My own preference is regime change in Iran, because I don’t think you solve any of the underlying problems, not the nuclear threat, not the terrorist threat, not the threat to close the Strait of Hormuz until that government is gone,” Bolton said, underlining that the current regime itself is the core issue.

Bolton reiterated that efforts to alter Iran’s behaviour have failed for decades. “If you can’t change a regime’s behaviour… the only solution as a matter of logic, is changing the regime,” he said, adding that the problem lies not just in policies but in the structure of power in Tehran.
Backing a more aggressive approach, Bolton said continued military pressure is necessary to weaken the regime from within. “I think continuing the military attacks to destabilise the regime is the right approach,” he said. He suggested targeting key institutions such as the Revolutionary Guard and supporting internal dissent to accelerate the collapse. “What we really need to do is help the people of Iran… provide them with material assistance, with communications, with finance, with weapons if they want it.”

Watch the full conversation here

He also expressed scepticism over ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran, calling the chances of any breakthrough extremely low. “The two positions… show that there’s almost no overlap at all,” he said, adding, “I don’t think even if there are talks, there’s the slightest chance they’re going to produce agreement.”

Bolton was critical of the US administration’s handling of the conflict, pointing to a lack of clear strategy. Referring to the deployment of additional troops, he said, “It shows a lack of strategic thinking that they’re only being deployed now at the last minute.”

On the broader conflict, Bolton said Iran’s actions — including threats to disrupt global oil flows — were entirely predictable. He warned that as long as the current regime remains in power, such risks will persist. “Anybody who says they’re surprised just hasn’t been paying attention,” he remarked.

While ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open is critical for global energy markets, Bolton stressed that tactical objectives should not distract from the larger goal. Even if Iran’s capabilities are degraded, he warned the threat will return if the regime survives. “Even if wounded, the regime survives… will be just as big a threat… as it was before.”

He also addressed the humanitarian fallout of the conflict, calling a recent strike that killed civilians “a tragedy” but insisting it was not intentional and does not change the broader strategic calculus.

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Bolton maintained that the US must prioritise supporting internal opposition in Iran to bring about change. “We need to help them make the change inside Iran… get that regime out,” he said, emphasising that only then can a stable and peaceful order emerge.

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