TL;DR
The US and Israel reportedly discussed supporting Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a coup during Iran’s recent war, but he has become disillusioned. The plan’s viability is uncertain, and its implications are complex.
According to a recent report from The New York Times, the United States and Israel considered supporting former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a coup during the early stages of Iran’s ongoing war, but Ahmadinejad has since become disillusioned with the plan.
The report confirms that US and Israeli officials consulted Ahmadinejad about a potential regime change operation, which involved backing him as a leader to replace the current Iranian government. Spencer Pratt Is the Factory-Reset Option for Los Angeles However, the plan was abandoned after an Israeli airstrike on Ahmadinejad’s compound in Tehran in February 2026, which was initially thought to be an assassination attempt but was later interpreted as an effort to free him from house arrest. Ahmadinejad’s disillusionment stems from the realization that the plan did not align with the realities of Iran’s political landscape, where he no longer has significant support or organizational backing. Experts, including Iran analyst Raz Zimmt, dismiss the idea that Ahmadinejad could lead a successful coup, citing his lack of support and relevance since leaving office in 2013. The report also notes that Ahmadinejad has recently traveled to Hungary and Guatemala, countries known for their friendly relations with Israel, raising concerns about his potential role as a foreign asset, which could carry severe consequences if confirmed.
Why It Matters
This development matters because it reveals the extent of foreign interest in regime change in Iran, highlighting covert efforts by the US and Israel that could influence regional stability. The potential backing of a figure like Ahmadinejad, once a controversial leader, underscores the complex and secretive nature of international strategies during the conflict. If true, it suggests that Iran’s internal political landscape remains a target for external manipulation, which could have long-term consequences for Iran’s stability and regional geopolitics.
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Background
Earlier this year, Iran experienced significant explosions and military clashes that indicated a shift toward a more destructive phase of the conflict. The US and Israel’s initial strategy appeared to involve targeted strikes aimed at regime weakening rather than outright regime change. Amazon rolls out its new 30-minute delivery option in a number of cities across the US Ahmadinejad, once a hardline president, has been under house arrest since 2013 after breaking with regime hard-liners. His recent travels and the reports of foreign consultations suggest ongoing covert interest in his potential role in future Iran scenarios. Spencer Pratt Is the Factory-Reset Option for Los Angeles The idea that external powers might support him in a coup has been met with skepticism by experts, who emphasize his diminished support base and political irrelevance. Amazon rolls out its new 30-minute delivery option in a number of cities across the US
“Given Ahmadinejad’s complete lack of an organizational support base, it’s hard to see how he could become Iran’s next ruler.”
— Raz Zimmt, Iran analyst
“Regime change could be achieved with just a few killings and broad amnesty; Ahmadinejad’s networks are ready to act on such a plan.”
— Jaber Rajabi, Ahmadinejad supporter
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear whether Ahmadinejad’s recent travels to Hungary and Guatemala are linked to any covert operations or support from foreign powers. The extent of US and Israeli involvement and whether they still consider him a viable option are also uncertain. Additionally, the internal Iranian regime’s response to these reports and the potential consequences for Ahmadinejad’s safety are still unknown.
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What’s Next
Further investigations and intelligence assessments are expected to clarify the extent of foreign involvement with Ahmadinejad and the likelihood of any future regime change plans. Monitoring his activities and regional diplomatic moves will be crucial in understanding whether external powers continue to pursue this strategy or have shifted focus.
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Key Questions
What is the ‘Ahmadinejad Option’?
The ‘Ahmadinejad Option’ refers to reports that the US and Israel considered supporting former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a coup during Iran’s recent conflict, though this plan appears to have been abandoned or fallen apart.
Why would the US and Israel support Ahmadinejad?
Reports suggest they saw him as a potential figure to replace the current regime, possibly as part of a broader strategy for regime change, though the plan’s feasibility is highly questionable given his diminished support.
What does Ahmadinejad’s recent travel indicate?
His visits to Hungary and Guatemala, countries friendly to Israel, may indicate ongoing covert contacts or support, but this remains unconfirmed and is subject to further investigation.
Could Ahmadinejad actually lead a coup?
Most experts agree this is unlikely, given his lack of organizational support and relevance in Iranian politics since 2013, making him an improbable leader of a successful coup.
Source: The Atlantic
