Mike Huckabee told NewsNation that Gulf monarchies would privately welcome the fall of Iran’s current leadership amid reports of more than 4,000 deaths in the regime’s crackdown. He described Tehran as a barrier to regional normalization while noting Gulf states avoid public criticism to prevent becoming targets. A U.S. carrier transited toward the Strait of Malacca, potentially allowing redeployment to the Middle East. Huckabee said U.S. ground forces are unlikely, though targeted strikes remain a presidential option.
Gulf States Quietly Back Change In Iran, Huckabee Says — U.S. Keeps Military Options Open
Gulf states would love to see Iran regime change: Amb. Huckabee
Mike Huckabee, speaking on NewsNation’s "Katie Pavlich Tonight," said leaders across the Gulf would privately welcome the collapse of Iran’s current regime as unrest in the country continues and reports indicate more than 4,000 people have died in the government’s crackdown.
Huckabee, a former Arkansas governor and frequent political commentator, framed Tehran as an obstacle to regional stability and to any move toward normalization with Israel and other countries in the region.
“I think everybody in the region can’t stand Iran. It’s a threat not just to the U.S. and Israel — Iran is a threat to anybody who would like to see normalization in peace,” Huckabee said. “They may not say it publicly because they don’t want to become a target, but privately every single Gulf state would love to see the Iranian people succeed in getting rid of this regime and restoring some sanity to what once was a great Persian culture.”
Tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high after President Donald Trump announced two explicit red lines for Iran: the killing of peaceful protesters and the use of mass executions in response to demonstrations. U.S. officials and allies have warned Tehran against crossing those lines, while calling for restraint and accountability.
In a related development, a U.S. aircraft carrier that had been operating in the South China Sea transited past Singapore and entered the Strait of Malacca, a move that could allow it to reposition toward the Middle East if directed.
Responding to concerns about U.S. involvement, Huckabee said he does not expect American ground forces to be sent into Iran. “We’re a pretty capable and robust nation with extraordinary assets and capabilities, but nobody is suggesting that the U.S. put boots on the ground in Iran,” he said. He added that targeted strikes remain a possibility and would be a decision for the president.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
Help us improve.
