Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley is urging President Trump to steer clear of trying to force regime change in Iran, pushing back against growing talk of deeper U.S. involvement in the conflict between Israel and Iran.
“The U.S. should not engage in regime change in Iran,” Haley posted Wednesday on X. “Our focus should only be on our national security. The Iranian regime has threatened the U.S. with nuclear production for years.”
Haley emphasized that the American priority should be to back Israel’s efforts to eliminate key nuclear sites, not dictate political outcomes in Tehran. “We should support Israel in eliminating the Natanz and Fordow sites to prevent the threat of an atomic bomb used against us,” she added. “The Iranian people should decide who they want to be their leader. That’s their decision, not ours. Stay focused.”
Haley’s comments arrive as President Trump continues to weigh a U.S. military strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Trump did not rule out direct involvement in the conflict, responding vaguely when pressed: “I may do it, I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do.”
He went on to suggest Iran is under pressure and ready to talk, hinting that military action might not be off the table. “Iran’s got a lot of trouble,” Trump said. “And they want to negotiate. And I say why didn’t you negotiate with me before all this death and destruction.”
The ongoing conflict began last week when Israel launched a major strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities and missile infrastructure, killing several high-ranking military officials and nuclear scientists. Since then, both nations have engaged in retaliatory attacks, escalating tensions across the region.
While Trump insists the strikes are meant to protect national security, Haley’s criticism signals rising concern within the Republican Party especially from those who have positioned themselves as more cautious on foreign intervention. Haley, who has been increasingly vocal in challenging Trump’s leadership on several issues, appears to be drawing a red line when it comes to committing the U.S. to a broader war or attempting to topple the Iranian government.
Her statement adds to a growing chorus of voices questioning whether Trump’s increasingly aggressive foreign policy stance aligns with long-term American interests.