Trump says Iranian leaders want talks with US

Middle Eastern outlets frame Trump’s comments as part of a broader effort to topple Iran’s current system, noting his talk of this being the 'best chance' to strike the regime and his interest in exiled dissident Reza Pahlavi as a possible successor. They report that Trump has courted Kurdish groups and other regional actors for help in ousting Iran’s rulers, even while sometimes saying he has agreed to talk to Iran. These outlets stress that Trump’s later claim that it is 'too late' for Iran to seek talks suggests he prefers pressure and regime change over a negotiated settlement.

• •Middle Eastern reports quote Trump calling the recent assault on Iran the 'best chance' to strike what he labels a 'sick and sinister regime'.
• •Coverage says Trump has discussed exiled Iranian dissident Reza Pahlavi as a possible successor to Iran’s current leadership.
• •Reports describe Kurdish groups seeing an opening but remaining wary as Trump seeks their help to oust Iran’s rulers.
• •Regional leaders such as UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed are reported to have discussed Iranian strikes directly with Trump and other global leaders.
• •Middle Eastern outlets highlight Trump’s statement that it is now 'too late' for Iran to seek talks, interpreting this as a sign that Washington is prioritising regime change over negotiations.