Politico: American officials prefer Israel to initiate an attack on Iran
American officials reportedly prefer that Israel attacks Iran before the United States considers military action.
Politico has reported insights from American officials regarding the discussions surrounding Iran. According to these officials, top advisors in President Donald Trump's administration express a preference for Israel to initiate an attack on Iran rather than the U.S. directly engaging in military action. This strategy is believed to potentially incite Iran's response and subsequently rally American public support for a follow-up response by the United States.
The report indicates that, in private meetings, Trump administration officials have suggested that an Israeli strike could shift public opinion. If Iran retaliates against Israel or one of its allies, more Americans may be inclined to support U.S. military intervention, as it would appear as a reaction to Iranian aggression. This contrasts with the prevailing sentiment among Americans, who are generally supportive of changing Iran's regime but wary of direct military engagements that could lead to American casualties.
In light of these discussions, Trump’s advisors are navigating the complexities of military intervention in Iran while weighing various justifications, including Iran's nuclear program. The political landscape is such that while there is public backing for regime change in Iran, the American electorate remains hesitant about risking lives for such outcomes. This delicate situation highlights the administration's strategic considerations as it looks to address the Iranian challenge without directly committing American forces up front.