U.S. President Donald Trump has triggered a political storm after appearing to shift responsibility for the ongoing Iran conflict onto Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, suggesting that the push for military action originated within the Pentagon.
Speaking about the decision-making process that led to U.S. involvement in the war, Trump claimed that Hegseth was among the first senior officials to advocate for strikes against Iran. The remarks have drawn attention as they indicate an effort by the President to distance himself from the escalation of hostilities.
The conflict, which has intensified tensions across the Middle East, is widely seen as part of a broader strategic alignment involving the United States and Israel against Iran. Reports suggest that Washington had earlier approved joint operations targeting key Iranian military and strategic installations.
Despite the escalation, Trump recently indicated a temporary pause in certain military strikes, citing what he described as “productive” efforts to explore a diplomatic resolution. However, officials in Iran have denied engaging in any direct negotiations with the United States.
Trump’s comments are being interpreted by political observers as an attempt to manage growing domestic and international criticism over the war. By attributing early advocacy for military action to the Pentagon leadership, the President appears to be redistributing accountability within his administration.
Meanwhile, Hegseth has defended the U.S. military campaign, asserting that the actions were necessary in response to security threats posed by Iran. He has maintained that the operation is aimed at preventing further destabilisation in the region.
The development underscores emerging divisions within the U.S. leadership over the narrative surrounding the Iran war, even as efforts to de-escalate the conflict continue amid ongoing military operations.
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