2WAY Tonight with Mark Halperin Conflicting Reports: Will Trump Hit Iran, or Has the Iranian Regime Taken Back Control, or Both?
Jan 15, 2026
Steven Olikara, a Democratic strategist and former Senate candidate, and Kristin Davison, a Republican strategist, delve into the complex situation in Iran. They discuss the mixed signals from the U.S. regarding military actions and the state of protests in Iran. Olikara raises concerns about the risks of regime change, while Davison highlights the importance of de-escalation. The duo also explores whether the U.S. should openly support Iranian protesters amid fears of retaliation and the long-term consequences of U.S. rhetoric.
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Mixed Signals From Iran Complicate U.S. Policy
- The situation in Iran is ambiguous with signals of both de-escalation and repression shaping U.S. choices.
- Mark Halperin notes mixed indicators: presidential claims of halted executions versus reporting that protests stopped due to intimidation.
Regime Control Undermines Strike Rationale
- Iran's government claims to be back in control, which could change the rationale for U.S. strikes meant to embolden protesters.
- Steven Olikara warns that regime-change rhetoric escalates risks and lacks a clear plan for 'what happens next.'
Avoid Regime-Change Framing
- Avoid framing U.S. threats as aiming for regime change when the objective is protecting protesters.
- Steven Olikara says ambiguity about post-regime outcomes makes regime-change goals dangerously destabilizing.