As the conflict between the U.S. and Iran enters its sixth month, GOP Senator Ted Cruz has advocated for a more aggressive stance against the Iranian regime. Speaking to CBS News national security analyst Aaron MacLean on the "School of War" podcast on August 7, 2026, Cruz said, "I think our objective should be regime collapse."

Cruz urged President Trump to increase pressure on Iran by arming Iranian protesters opposing the government. "What I believe we should do, what I have urged President Trump repeatedly, what I've urged Israel to do repeatedly, is arm the protesters, give them the guns, to let them overthrow their own government so that it's not American boots on the ground, it's Iranians fighting for their own country," Cruz said.

He emphasized that he supports any opposition group as long as it is not Islamist and hostile to America, mentioning groups such as the son of the Shah, the Mojahedin-e-Khalq opposition group, or local factions.

Cruz first called for arming protesters in late January 2026, following a harsh crackdown by Iran on widespread demonstrations that reportedly resulted in at least 12,000 deaths. The initial U.S. goal was to degrade Iran's military and nuclear capabilities, but President Trump also encouraged Iranians to "take over your government" and remove the hardline clerical regime that has ruled since 1979.

Cruz criticized a memorandum of understanding related to Iran, calling it a "disaster" and a "terrible deal," warning it could lead to billions in sanctions relief and $300 billion in economic development funds flowing to Iran. He expressed concern that such funds might enable Iran to maintain a "permanent role with the Strait of Hormuz." "You'll forgive me if I'm not terribly eager to give them $300 billion to facilitate their carrying out their stated intent of murdering us," Cruz said.

The Trump administration clarified in June that the $300 billion in reconstruction funds would be voluntary and sourced from Gulf states and private investors, not the U.S. government.

Cruz's comments highlight ongoing debates within U.S. policy circles about how best to respond to Iran's government and support opposition forces within the country.

Sources