The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has brought to light deep divisions within President Donald Trump’s base regarding the possibility of US intervention. While some of his supporters are urging caution and advising against involvement in a new Middle East war, others are in agreement with Trump’s stance that Iran must not be allowed to become a nuclear power. Trump himself remains undecided on whether the US should directly engage in the conflict, marking a departure from his usual cautious approach to foreign entanglements.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a warning stating that the US would face “irreparable damage” if it chose to deploy its military to attack Iran. This statement comes in response to Israel’s initiation of the war. Additionally, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hinted at potential disobedience of a federal court ruling against deploying national guard troops and US marines to Los Angeles, showcasing the Trump administration’s willingness to challenge judicial decisions it disagrees with.
In other news, the US Supreme Court upheld a Tennessee state law banning gender-affirming care for minors, a significant setback for transgender rights advocates. Furthermore, foreign students seeking educational and exchange visas will now be required to unlock their social media profiles for US diplomats to review, with failure to comply leading to suspicion of hiding online activity. Nippon Steel’s acquisition of US Steel for $14.9 billion has also been finalized, granting the Trump administration increased influence following a lengthy acquisition process.
