They wanted to take out Khameini and replace him with someone who would cut a deal with the U.S. and let the oil flow, just like in Venezuela.

Ahmadinejad was their pick for a pliable front man? That's as credible as the regime claims that Cuba has 300 drones and will launch a sneak attack against Key West. The only thing that lends a shred of credibility to that nonsense is that Ahmadinejad was not at the big meeting that was bombed. But his home was bombed as well. The reasonable read is the intent was to kill anyone who could lead the government, to tip Iran into chaos. That would be "Bibi's" objective. Trump's MO would be to tell "Bibi" he's all in on regime change too. Then, once "Bibi" gives him what he wants, double cross him, and conduct kabuki theater about negotiating with the existing regime, while implementing his real objective.

Keep in mind, Trump has been all about increasing demand for USian oil and gas. Within weeks of his inauguration, he was crowing about "deals" with Japan and Korea for them to buy US oil and gas.

US and Japan unveil $36bn of oil, gas and critical minerals projects in challenge to China
This article is more than 2 months old

Donald Trump says deals ‘end our foolish dependence on foreign sources’, while Japanese PM hails enhanced economic security

theguardian.com - US japan critical minerals agreement oil gas projects deal

South Korea considering buying more US oil and gas, industry minister says

reuters.com - South korea looking buying more US oil gas energy minister says

India seeks to import more U.S. oil and gas under pressure from Trump to stop Russian oil purchases

spectrumlocalnews.com - India US oil gas imports russia

Of course, the best way to increase demand for USian oil and gas, is to cut off competing supplies.

Steve