How Long Could the War in Iran Last?

“So when will the war in Iran end? That depends on how the United States defines its objective,” says Tim Constantine.

At times, President Donald Trump has suggested the conflict could end after a specific list of targets inside Iran is struck by the U.S. and Israel.

At other moments, Trump has spoken about the possibility of regime change in Iran — meaning replacing the current government with one that is more responsive to the Iranian people.

Most military experts say achieving regime change would likely require either U.S. troops on the ground or a large, organized opposition force within Iran capable of taking control.

Another theoretical path would involve members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or other Iranian forces refusing orders or joining protesters. Analysts say there is currently little evidence of that happening.

“If regime change is the objective,” Constantine said, “this war is far from over.”