U.S. media: If Iran's next leader acts pragmatically, sanctions on Iran may be lifted

During an interview, President Trump stated that if necessary, the U.S. military intends to sustain attacks on Iran for "four to five weeks," and insisted that Israel and the U.S. "will not have difficulty" maintaining combat intensity, while also warning that there may be more casualties among U.S. troops.

When asked about the power transition plan, Mr. Trump expressed his hope that Iran's elite forces (including senior officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps who have significant influence and profit from the current regime) could hand over weapons to the Iranian people. In a call lasting about six minutes, Trump also mentioned that he has three "very good" candidates to lead Iran, but he refused to disclose the specific names.

He repeatedly referred to his experiences in Venezuela, which may suggest he believes that effective methods used in Venezuela could also apply to Iran. He also stated that he would be willing to lift sanctions on Iran if the new leadership shows a pragmatic and cooperative attitude. However, he simultaneously declined to clarify how (or whether) his administration would defend the Iranian people, whom he claims should overthrow the current government.