NYT: US with 'finger on the trigger', Iranian regime weaker than ever

2026-01-27 18:38:52 / BOTA ALFA PRESS

NYT: US with 'finger on the trigger', Iranian regime weaker than ever

US President Donald Trump has received numerous reports from US intelligence agencies indicating that the Iranian government's position is weakening significantly, the New York Times reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. According to these reports, the Iranian authorities' grip on power is at its lowest level since the overthrow of the Shah during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The protests that erupted late last year have shaken the regime's foundations, especially as they spread to areas previously considered bastions of support for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Although the protests have subsided, intelligence reports indicate that the Iranian government remains in a fragile position, largely due to the dire economic situation. Financial difficulties prompted sporadic protests in late December, which escalated in January. Iranian authorities, according to sources, had little opportunity to ease the economic burden on families and responded with repressive measures, further alienating large segments of society.

The White House confirmed that President Trump is being regularly briefed on developments. "President Trump is being kept informed of intelligence issues around the world. With regard to Iran, he continues to monitor the situation closely," White House press secretary Caroline Levitt said.

Trump has warned of the possibility of an attack on Iran, but there are divided opinions within the administration about the effectiveness of such an action, especially if it would be symbolic and limited. According to the New York Times, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged Trump to postpone any military action. On the other hand, some advisers and allies of the US president see the situation as a “golden opportunity” to overthrow the Iranian regime. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said he expects Trump to fulfill his promise to support the Iranian protesters. “The goal is to end the regime,” he declared.

Reinforcement of American military forces

Meanwhile, the United States is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East. The aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, accompanied by three warships equipped with Tomahawk missiles, has entered the area of ​​responsibility of the US Central Command. In the event of an order from the White House, naval forces could act within a day or two.

The Pentagon has also sent 12 additional F-15E fighter jets, as well as Patriot and THAAD missile defense systems, to protect American troops from possible Iranian retaliation. Long-range bombers remain on high alert.

Regional warnings and consultations

US officials have intensified consultations with allies in the region. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, visited Syria, Iraq and Israel, delivering a clear message to Iraqi authorities: any attack by Shiite militias on US forces will be met with retaliation. The Trump administration has also held talks with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as part of regional coordination on the situation in Iran.

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