Israeli Strikes on Iran Test Trump’s ‘America First’ Agenda/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” struck Iran early June 2025, prompting Trump to urge diplomacy. U.S. distances itself but readies to protect American forces under Trump’s watch. GOP divides emerge as Trump’s “America First” credibility faces challenge.
Trump Faces “America First” Challenge: Quick Looks
- Diplomatic hope vs. military reality: Trump urged a deal, but Israeli action overtook diplomacy.
- U.S. cautious stance: Administration insists no involvement, prioritizing personnel safety.
- Political split: MAGA allies warn impact on Trump coalition may be severe.
- Regional fallout: Iran vows retaliation; U.S. troops and sanctions in the balance.
Israeli Strikes on Iran Test Trump’s ‘America First’ Agenda
Deep Look
Pre‑Dawn Diplomacy, Then Attack
Just hours before Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” against Iran, former President Donald Trump made a last-ditch push for diplomacy. He reminded Tehran on Truth Social: “I gave Iran chance after chance … JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” urging a nuclear deal to avert war.
However, around the early hours of June 13, 2025, Israeli forces struck Iran’s Natanz enrichment site, ballistic missile program, and killed senior military and scientific leaders. Iran responded by launching over 100 drones toward Israel.
U.S. Distancing with Protective Focus
Secretary of State and Acting National Security Advisor Marco Rubio clarified that the U.S. “was not involved” and emphasized safeguarding American forces. He stated,
“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense,” while warning Iran not to target U.S. assets .
The Biden-era evacuation of non-essential personnel from Middle East posts intensified as strikes loomed—another sign of U.S. caution .
Trump’s “America First” at a Crossroads
Trump’s insistence on diplomacy clashes with MAGA hardliners who warned of political backlash.
Charlie Kirk said the strike “could cause a massive schism in MAGA,” while Jack Posobiec warned it “would disastrously split the Trump coalition” .
Conversely, Sen. Tim Kaine (D‑VA) praised the administration for “prioritizing diplomacy” and avoiding direct U.S. involvement, while expressing concern for American personnel .
Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized readiness “to defend the American people from Iranian aggression.”
Diplomatic Limbo and Regional Risks
The Israeli strike occurred as Trump’s team planned a sixth round of U.S.–Iran nuclear talks in Oman.
Trump’s push for diplomacy—“my entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran”—now confronts the reality of military escalation.
Iran’s defiance could scuttle the negotiations. As Iranian officials warned—“all U.S. bases are within our reach” if conflict ensues—retaliation appears likely.
Political and Strategic Implications
Foreign-policy hawks commendably echo Trump’s stance against Iran, yet “America First” skeptics warn that military alignment with Israel undermines campaign promises to avoid new wars—particularly amid open-ended regional violence in Gaza and Ukraine .
Defense Priorities’ Rosemary Kelanic cautioned: “Israel’s strike … must not become the United States’ war,” highlighting public reluctance for another Middle East war .
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