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Trump Plays Down Potential Iran Ground Mission, Criticizes New Supreme Leader
President says he's 'nowhere near' ordering U.S. troops into Iran, but expresses displeasure with Mojtaba Khamenei's rise to power
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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In an interview with The Post, President Trump said the U.S. is 'nowhere near' ordering a ground mission to safeguard nuclear material at Iran's Isfahan facility, despite previous reports of discussions about such a deployment. Trump also expressed dissatisfaction with Mojtaba Khamenei replacing his father Ali Khamenei as Iran's new Supreme Leader, but declined to specify how he plans to handle the transition of power.
Why it matters
The potential deployment of U.S. ground troops to Iran and the transition of power in Iran's theocratic leadership are high-stakes geopolitical issues that could significantly impact regional stability and U.S.-Iran relations. Trump's comments provide insight into the administration's thinking and approach to these developments.
The details
Trump told The Post that no decision has been made about sending U.S. troops to Iran's nuclear facility in Isfahan, despite previous reports that such a mission was under active discussion. He also said he is 'not happy' with Mojtaba Khamenei replacing his father as Iran's Supreme Leader, but did not elaborate on how the U.S. might respond to the leadership change.
- On March 9, 2026, Mojtaba Khamenei was named as Iran's new Supreme Leader, replacing his father Ali Khamenei.
- On March 8, 2026, Trump spoke to The Post from his golf club in Doral, Florida.
The players
Donald Trump
The 45th President of the United States.
Mojtaba Khamenei
The newly elected Supreme Leader of Iran, replacing his father Ali Khamenei.
Ali Khamenei
The former Supreme Leader of Iran, who was recently replaced by his son Mojtaba Khamenei.
What they’re saying
“We haven't made any decision on that. We're nowhere near it.”
— Donald Trump, President of the United States (The Post)
“Not going to tell you. I'm not happy with him.”
— Donald Trump, President of the United States (The Post)
The takeaway
Trump's comments suggest a cautious approach to potential military action in Iran and a wary stance towards the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The transition of power in Iran's leadership and the ongoing tensions over the country's nuclear program remain critical issues that will likely continue to shape U.S. foreign policy in the region.
