In the face of mounting speculation, US President Donald Trump categorically denied preparations for war with Iran, brushing aside Pentagon reservations and Democratic outcries. His Truth Social tirade targeted ‘fake news’ tales claiming General Dan Caine resists military options.
A Wall Street Journal exposé revealed Defense Department anxieties presented to Trump: extended operations could inflict serious harm on US-allied assets amid Iran’s air defense gaps. Caine reportedly flagged these in Pentagon huddles and NSC sessions, per current and former officials cited by Daily reports.
Undeterred, Trump portrayed Caine as war-averse yet victory-assured. The general, per Trump, backs decisive action if pursued, having helmed the devastating ‘Midnight Hammer’ strike that razed Iranian nuclear sites with elite B-2 bombers. ‘I make the decisions. I’d rather make a deal than no deal,’ Trump declared, pitying Iran’s people.
Political fireworks erupted in Congress. Senator Chris Coons decried the swift deployment of vast air and sea might near Iran, post-nuclear hits. He pressed for answers: What’s the endgame? How to safeguard Americans? Coons conceded no nukes for Iran but slammed strikes as futile, endangering troops sans plan.
Representative Seth Moulton intensified the rhetoric, decrying Trump’s alleged march to ‘Iraq War 2.0.’ Without defined gains or costs, he warned, the fallout echoes Bush’s deceptions. Blaming Trump’s deal sabotage, Moulton called on lawmakers to intervene boldly.
Trump’s bold dismissal highlights a stark administration-Hill rift, as Iran tensions test resolve and restraint in a volatile region.