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UPDATED: Jan 13, 2026 22:05 IST
In an exclusive interview with India Today, former US Security Advisor John Bolton discusses the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Bolton asserts that the 'threat of military force is real', noting that previous strikes on Iran's nuclear program did not result in the predicted regional turmoil. He further says 'regime change should be the objective' for President Donald Trump, suggesting targeted strikes on the Revolutionary Guard and nuclear facilities. Bolton also addresses the potential economic impact on India, mentioning Trump's threat of a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran, which could raise total tariffs for India to 75%. He describes Trump's foreign policy as 'transactional' and 'episodic', lacking a grand strategy. Furthermore, Bolton discusses the internal instability in Tehran, claiming the regime is at its weakest point since 1979 and that the 'regime's days are numbered' as protests intensify across the country.
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