Retired Army Special Forces veteran Jim Hansen has suggested that the United States could eventually consider regime change in Iran as economic pressure continues to weigh heavily on the Islamic Republic.
Hansen made the remarks in a Fox News video from 00:37:58 published on Sunday, August 9, 2026, while discussing reports that Iranian officials believe they can withstand pressure from President Donald Trump by worsening economic conditions in the United States ahead of the midterm elections.
He acknowledged that Trump may be reluctant to take actions that could trigger additional instability in the Middle East, particularly if such developments affect global oil prices or create political difficulties for Republicans ahead of the elections. However, Hansen argued that Tehran should not assume that these considerations would prevent Washington from exploring tougher alternatives.
According to Hansen, the possibility of ending the current Iranian regime should be part of the broader discussion about how to address the country’s long-running political crisis. He argued that Iran has faced serious problems under the Islamic Republic since 1979 and suggested that its citizens deserve the opportunity to experience a different form of government.
Hansen also said Trump could have more political room to pursue alternative policies after the midterm elections, when electoral considerations would be less immediate.
The former Special Forces soldier further discussed tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. He said Iran had considered imposing charges on ships using the strategic waterway and potentially sharing the revenue with Oman. Hansen noted that the Trump administration strongly opposed the proposal.
He also highlighted Iran’s worsening economic conditions, pointing to an International Monetary Fund estimate of about 70 percent inflation. In his view, the severe economic pressure could further challenge Iran’s leadership as tensions with Washington remain high.