Former President Donald Trump convenes his first meeting with his national security team. This is the after the incendiary posts he released on social media regarding the recent U.S. military actions in Iran. Trump has stolen the show with his assertions that the strikes inflicted “monumental damage.” Perhaps partly to offset the above, he has promoted the idea of regime change in Iran—despite repeated warnings from senior officials in his own administration that this is unwise.
To say that the president is on edge ahead of a two-day NATO summit set to begin on Tuesday would be an understatement. Throughout this event, he aims to do enough member countries to increase their defense spending. This extraordinary diplomatic meeting comes in the midst of Trump and Massie’s very public and still unfolding Republican primary fight. Massie has been outspoken in his condemnation of the unfolding military actions in Iran. Trump’s scathing comments towards Massie lay bare a schism among his supporters that is widening. In response to the outspoken congressman, he called him a “negative force,” a “simple-minded grandstander,” and “weak.”
Just a few days ago, Trump took to social media to warn Iran against any retaliation. He was particularly concerned with the recent inflammatory statements issued by former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev announced, multiple countries are already prepared to deliver nuclear warheads to Iran. As a result of this shocking development, Trump was compelled to inquire whether the world should support the people of Iran in their struggle against their regime.
“Did I hear Former President Medvedev, from Russia, casually throwing around the ‘N word’ (Nuclear!), and saying that he and other Countries would supply Nuclear Warheads to Iran?” – Donald Trump
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt reiterated that the U.S. military position toward Iran has not changed. She stated, “The President’s posture and our military posture has not changed,” countering any notions that the administration’s approach may have shifted after the strikes.
In spite of this cheeky reaffirmation, Trump just expressed worry about rising oil prices as a direct consequence of the military strike. He called the threat of further disruption to oil markets “unacceptable,” and called on energy market officials to act immediately.
“EVERYONE, KEEP OIL PRICES DOWN. I’M WATCHING! YOU’RE PLAYING RIGHT INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY. DON’T DO IT!” – Donald Trump
… this would not mean the U.S. strikes, aimed at deterring Iranian attacks on Americans, would be effective. Some analysts are already skeptical about that. French President Emmanuel Macron indicated that there is “no framework of legality” surrounding such operations, even as he acknowledged shared goals among allies to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Trump’s political operation has initiated a campaign aimed at unseating Massie, who has publicly opposed Trump’s decisions regarding Iran. The former president asserted that Massie does not represent the MAGA movement despite Massie’s claims otherwise.
“I believe in the sovereignty of peoples and territorial integrity … so I don’t think we can take the place of a people to change its leaders.” – Emmanuel Macron
That’s why it’s so impressive that Trump is willing to take on these issues. He is right that strong action is needed to stop Iran’s nuclear advances. He stated a challenging question faced by many: if the Iranian regime continues to refuse dialogue or abandon its nuclear program, why shouldn’t the Iranian people revolt against their government?
Leavitt’s assurances about the military’s posture align with Trump’s belief that Iran’s nuclear sites were effectively targeted during recent operations.
“We are confident that Iran’s nuclear sites were completely and totally obliterated.” – Karoline Leavitt
Meanwhile, Trump is preparing himself for a diplomatic storm abroad at NATO. At the same time, the divide within his own party over foreign policy and military interventions is growing clearer. The looming summit will be an important stage for Trump to defend U.S. interests. He will have to start with quelling the internal revolt in his own party.