Trump says U.S. should pick Iran’s next leader, amid rising regional conflict and oil disruptions.

Donald Trump stated the U.S. should play a role in selecting Iran’s next leader, dismissing Mojtaba Khamenei as unqualified and likening the situation to Venezuela. His remarks come amid escalating conflict involving U.S., Israeli, and Iranian forces, with strikes across the region, over 1,200 deaths in Iran, and disruptions to oil shipments and air travel. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, driving oil prices up. No official U.S. policy change has been confirmed, and Trump’s comments reflect a hardline stance without defined mechanisms for influence.