Trump's goals for the Iran war and what he's saying now

Updated on: June 18, 2026 / 8:40 PM EDT / CBS News

Trump's goals for the Iran war and what he's saying now

TL;DR

  • President Trump's initial war aims against Iran included destroying its missiles, preventing its nuclear program, and facilitating regime change.
  • Trump's current stance has softened, stating it's acceptable for Iran to keep some ballistic missiles and that there's no rush to recover enriched uranium.
  • A U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding has been signed to extend a ceasefire and initiate nuclear talks, with most specifics deferred to future negotiations.
  • Trump has praised Iran's current leadership as 'rational' and 'nice to deal with', a contrast to his earlier aggressive rhetoric.
  • The memorandum indicates the U.S. will lift sanctions against Iran on an agreed schedule as part of a final deal, contingent on Iran's compliance.