A Middle East expert warned that senior officials in the Iranian regime might consider making a break for it like former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad if negotiations between Washington and Tehran collapse.
Saeid Golkar, professor of political science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a senior advisor at United Against Nuclear Iran, told Fox News Digital that the highest-ranking officials would likely look to Russia for refuge. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has connections to Moscow, which could make it easier for officials to escape there.
Iran regime power players may eye Russia in Assad-style escape as US talks falter: expert - Fox News https://t.co/9uhjB8rjHz #Iran #Russia #USPolitics #MiddleEast #IRGC pic.twitter.com/9zvuEzhlYv
— Iranian Diaspora Cooperation & Development Council (@Irandiasporaa) May 11, 2026
He also speculated that lower-ranking officials could flee to Iraq or Afghanistan. The regime has already responded to the U.S.’ proposal, but it is unclear whether the two sides can come to a resolution.
Russia could provide a sanctuary for top Iranian leaders because it would allow them to influence events in Iran even if the regime collapses. Iranian officials are still reviewing the U.S.’ proposal, which left issues like the country’s nuclear ambitions and blockade of the Strait of Hormuz unresolved. The regime is demanding an end to the war and the lifting of sanctions without acceding to any of Washington’s demands.
Iran’s power struggle is getting sharper as U.S.-Iran talks falter and regime insiders reportedly weigh escape routes.
— Erik Hoffmann (@TheErikHoffmann) May 12, 2026
Middle East expert Saeid Golkar says top #Iran commanders could look to #Russia for an Assad-style refuge, while lower-ranking figures may seek shelter in Iraq…
President Trump rejected Iran’s latest response to the U.S. peace proposal and suggested the ceasefire is on life support, which is surely raising concerns among regime leadership that Washington could resume airstrikes.
After several days of flare-ups in the Strait of Hormuz, the situation appears to have calmed down as Washington and Tehran attempt to come to an agreement. However, it appears this will be short-lived given that the talks don’t seem to be producing results.