TL;DR
The US and Israel reportedly discussed supporting Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a coup to overthrow Iran’s regime, but he became disillusioned after initial strikes. The plan’s viability is highly questionable, and the situation remains fluid.
Recent reports confirm that the United States and Israel sought to support former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a coup during Iran’s ongoing war, but Ahmadinejad became disillusioned after an initial Israeli and US airstrike on his compound in Tehran.
According to The New York Times, the US and Israel had ‘consulted’ Ahmadinejad about plans to install him as Iran’s leader if the regime fell. An airstrike on February 28, 2026, targeting his compound in Tehran, was part of this strategy, initially interpreted as an assassination attempt but later seen as an effort to free him from house arrest. Ahmadinejad reportedly rejected the plan after the strike, expressing disillusionment. Experts and analysts widely dismiss the idea that Ahmadinejad could lead a successful coup, citing his lack of support and political relevance since leaving office in 2013. Some sources, including Iran analyst Raz Zimmt, emphasize his diminished influence and organizational support, making the scenario unlikely. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the US and Israel’s broader strategy shifted toward weakening the regime through various means, rather than supporting a specific individual like Ahmadinejad. Recent leaks suggest he may now be viewed as a potential asset or influence, but his current role remains uncertain.
Why It Matters
This development highlights the potential for behind-the-scenes discussions regarding regime change in Iran, involving major Western allies. If accurate, it reflects the complexity of current US-Israel strategies toward Iran, including covert efforts to influence Iran’s leadership. The diminished political relevance of Ahmadinejad suggests limited prospects for external support for him personally and raises questions about the effectiveness of external interventions in Iran’s internal politics.
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Background
Since the start of the recent conflict in Iran, there have been various reports of external efforts to influence or destabilize the regime. Ahmadinejad, once a prominent figure, has been largely sidelined since 2013, with limited political influence. The US and Israel have historically opposed Iran’s government, but their strategies have shifted from overt opposition to a combination of economic sanctions and targeted military actions. Spencer Pratt Is the Factory-Reset Option for Los Angeles The recent airstrike on Ahmadinejad’s compound marked a notable escalation, initially perceived as an assassination attempt, but later understood as part of broader efforts to destabilize the regime. The idea of supporting him in a coup has been discussed but is considered unlikely given his limited support base and political standing.
“Given Ahmadinejad’s limited organizational support, his potential as an alternative to the current regime appears minimal.”
— Raz Zimmt, Iran analyst
“All options, including support for figures like Ahmadinejad, were considered, but the situation on the ground is complex and challenging.”
— Unspecified US official (per report)
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What Remains Unclear
It remains uncertain whether the US and Israel intended to support Ahmadinejad as a leader or if reports are part of misinformation. The current status of any covert plans or support is unclear, and his current political influence and future role are not definitively known. His potential as an asset or liability for foreign powers remains uncertain.
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What’s Next
Further intelligence assessments and investigations are expected to clarify the current US and Israel stance regarding Ahmadinejad, including whether he remains a figure of interest. Monitoring developments within Iran and reviewing new information will be important for understanding the evolving situation.
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Key Questions
Did the US and Israel actually plan to support Ahmadinejad in a coup?
Reports suggest they discussed the possibility and considered it, but there is no confirmation of concrete support or the viability of such plans.
Why is Ahmadinejad’s involvement considered unlikely now?
He has been politically isolated since 2013, with limited organizational support, and most analysts regard him as having minimal influence on Iran’s current political landscape.
What was the purpose of the airstrike on Ahmadinejad’s compound?
Initially perceived as an assassination attempt, it was later viewed as an effort to free him from house arrest and to contribute to broader destabilization efforts.
Could Ahmadinejad still be used as a political tool?
It is uncertain; recent information suggests he might be considered an influence or asset, but his actual impact within Iran remains limited.
Source: The Atlantic
