President Donald Trump has denied allegations that Israel pressured the U.S. into launching the Iran war, asserting that his decision was driven by longstanding concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated that the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel reinforced his belief that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.
The comments come as a two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is set to expire, with tensions remaining high over the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has warned that if Iran rejects a proposed deal, it will target the country's infrastructure, including bridges and power plants. Meanwhile, negotiations with Iran remain uncertain, with no confirmed meeting between Iranian leaders and a U.S. delegation, which would include Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.
Public opinion on the war remains divided, with polls showing it is largely unpopular among Americans. A Pew Research Center survey found that 60% of U.S. adults have an unfavorable view of Israel, up from 53% last year, and 59% lack confidence in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Criticism from conservatives has also emerged, with figures like Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene alleging that Israel influenced the U.S. into the conflict. Trump, however, dismissed such claims, calling them part of a broader pattern of 'fake news' and 'rigged polls'.