Former national security adviser John Bolton said negotiations with Iran are futile and urged the United States to use pressure and intimidation to help opposition forces weaken and potentially topple the country’s leadership.
Bolton Rejects Iran Negotiations Amid Protests
On Tuesday, Bolton shared a video of his remarks on NewsNation after the U.S. State Department advised Americans in Iran to evacuate as protests spread and security forces intensified crackdowns.
“Negotiations with the Iranian regime are a waste of oxygen,” Bolton said on X.
“Let’s give them reason to be intimidated. Let’s see if we can help the opposition pick the regime apart at the top,” he said in the video.
Bolton said reports from inside Iran suggest deaths from repression “could be in the thousands” as demonstrations stretch into a second week, calling the situation “very dangerous.”
Calls Grow For Pressure And Regime Change
Asked about the possibility of U.S. airstrikes, Bolton said military action should be tied to a broader strategy.
“What’s the plan? What’s the objective?” he said, arguing the goal should be “to help the opposition overthrow the regime of the Ayatollahs and the Revolutionary Guard.”
He said limited strikes meant only to send a message would fall short, urging a focus on Iran’s power centers, including Revolutionary Guard headquarters, internal security forces, nuclear and ballistic missile programs and naval assets in the Persian Gulf.
Bolton dismissed reports that Iran had privately sought negotiations, saying Tehran would use talks “to buy time and to try and ward off uh a real US move here.”
Trump Hits Iran With 25% Tariffs Amid Deadly Protests
On Monday, President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on any country doing business with Iran, aiming to pressure Tehran amid deadly protests.
Rights group HRANA reported 490 civilian deaths, 48 security personnel killed and over 10,800 arrests, with state TV showing funerals and body bags.
Trump considered military action and warned the U.S. would respond if Iranian forces fired on protesters.
He said Iran expressed interest in negotiating its nuclear program, but added action might be needed before a meeting. Tehran signaled readiness for war while also calling for dialogue.
Over the weekend, rising tensions rattled energy markets, driving up crude and natural gas prices.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key route for one-third of global seaborne oil, remained a strategic chokepoint, with analysts warning potential disruptions could push Brent crude to $110 per barrel, posing risks to energy security worldwide.
Image via Shutterstock/ Christopher Halloran
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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