President Donald Trump stated that potential candidates from within the Iranian government who were identified to potentially lead a new regime have been killed during the recent military strikes.

In a conversation with ABC News’ Jonathan Karl, the President expressed satisfaction with the success of the ongoing military campaign. When asked who would lead Iran following the operation, President Trump responded, “No one we thought, because they’re all dead.” He noted that the strikes successfully eliminated most of the individuals within the Iranian government structure who had been considered possible successors.

While former Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has long been touted by many as a potential replacement to lead a post-Islamic Republic Iran, Pahlavi is alive and currently resides in the United States. President Trump’s comments specifically referred to candidates operating inside the existing Iranian government apparatus.

President Trump also disclosed that communication with remaining Iranian officials is underway. He confirmed that an individual who survived the strikes and is no longer answering to the Supreme Leader has reached out to him. The President has previously indicated a willingness to engage in a new round of talks with Iran.

Addressing the tragic loss of three American service members during the mission, the President was candid about the realities of combat, stating, “It’s war, and there are casualties in war.” He highlighted the overall effectiveness of recent military efforts. Pointing to three significant military operations—including a previous action in Iran, the operation against Nicolas Maduro, and the current campaign—he noted that, Boruch Hashem, the United States has suffered only three casualties, while Iranian losses are too numerous to count.
“Nobody else could have done this, but me,” the President added.