Possible Scenarios Following a U.S. Strike on Iran: What to Expect

Thu Jan 29 2026 13:30:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With rising tensions, experts outline seven potential outcomes if the U.S. decides to strike Iran, ranging from surgical strikes to regime collapse.

As tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalate, experts consider seven possible scenarios following a U.S. military strike. From successful surgical interventions leading to regime change, to retaliatory attacks by Iran against U.S. forces, the outcomes remain uncertain and could significantly impact global stability.

Possible Scenarios Following a U.S. Strike on Iran: What to Expect

The U.S. appears poised to strike Iran within days, raising concerns about the potential outcomes. If no last-minute deal can be reached with Tehran, and President Donald Trump gives the order, what will happen next? Experts have identified seven possible scenarios:

1. Targeted Strikes and a Shift to Democracy

In an optimistic scenario, the U.S. conducts precise strikes against military bases, leading to the downfall of the Iranian regime and a transition to democracy. However, previous interventions in Iraq and Libya show the challenges of ensuring stability thereafter.

2. Regime Survival with Moderated Policies

Similar to the "Venezuelan model," a swift U.S. action could lead to an Iran that remains under the Islamic Republic but is forced to moderate its aggressive policies.

3. Regime Collapse Followed by Military Rule

Analysts consider military rule as a plausible outcome, with the Iranian Revolution Guards taking control during the chaos after a U.S. strike.

4. Iranian Retaliation Against U.S. Interests

Iran has promised retaliation against U.S. strikes, which could include attacks on U.S. armed forces and allies in the region.

5. Mining of the Gulf and Disruption of Shipping

Iran might resort to mining the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil supplies and triggering skyrocketing prices.

6. Sinking of a U.S. Warship

Although deemed unlikely, a concerted "swarm attack" by Iranian forces could potentially lead to the sinking of a U.S. warship—an unprecedented humiliation for the U.S. military.

7. Chaos Following Regime Collapse

A regime collapse could plunge Iran into chaos, risking civil war and regional instability amid ethnic tensions.

The most alarming scenario is that President Trump, feeling pressure to act following troop deployments, initiates a conflict without a clear plan for resolution, leading to unknown ramifications.