Trump denies Israeli influence in Iran war amid public discontent

US President Donald Trump has asserted that Israel did not influence his decision to engage in war with Iran, stating, "Israel never talked me into the war with Iran." This statement comes as he faces mounting criticism regarding the conflict, particularly from his own supporters. Trump emphasized that the events of October 7th reinforced his long-standing belief that "IRAN CAN NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON."

Despite Trump's claims, there is no public evidence linking Iran to the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Notably, Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's intelligence chief, testified in March that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapon. Prior to the conflict, Trump had repeatedly stated that US airstrikes in June had "obliterated" Iran's nuclear program. Critics argue that the war serves Israeli interests more than American safety, with Vice President Kamala Harris stating, "He entered a war – got pulled into it by Bibi Netanyahu."

The war has had significant repercussions, including a spike in energy prices and inflation in the US, with petrol prices exceeding $4 per gallon. A recent NBC News poll indicated that two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of the war. The conflict escalated following US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other officials, prompting Iran to block the Strait of Hormuz, further exacerbating global oil prices.

As the conflict pauses, further negotiations between US and Iranian officials are anticipated to take place in Pakistan this week, with a two-week ceasefire set to expire on Wednesday. Trump has continued to criticize media coverage of the war, labeling it as "FAKE NEWS" and expressing confidence in a favorable outcome for Iran under new leadership.

Power Read: Trump's assertion of independence from Israeli influence in the Iran conflict may serve as a strategic maneuver to regain support from his base amid rising discontent over the war. However, the ongoing energy crisis and public dissatisfaction expose vulnerabilities in his leadership, particularly as he attempts to position himself as a peace candidate in the upcoming election. Netanyahu's persistent push for a hardline approach against Iran indicates that Israel remains a significant player in shaping US foreign policy, despite Trump's claims.

What to watch: The expiration of the ceasefire on Wednesday could lead to renewed hostilities or a breakthrough in negotiations.