Former President Donald Trump initially opposed Israel’s recent military strikes on Iranian targets but ultimately shifted to reluctant support after internal discussions with advisers and Republican allies, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
Following Israel’s April strike on Iran, which was seen as a response to Tehran’s drone and missile barrage, Trump reportedly expressed concern that the Israeli action risked triggering a broader regional war. He reportedly feared that such escalation could damage U.S. interests and lead to unnecessary entanglements. Sources say Trump’s first reaction was to speak out against the strikes, though he did not issue a public statement at the time.
However, over the course of several days, Trump’s position changed. Advisers and political allies—including some in the Senate—reportedly urged him to align more closely with traditional Republican support for Israel, especially amid the 2024 campaign climate. By late April, Trump’s social media posts appeared more favorable, offering words of support for Israel’s actions and criticizing President Joe Biden’s handling of the broader Middle East situation.
Trump’s evolving stance has attracted attention from foreign policy observers, especially as tensions continue between Israel and Iran. While the Biden administration has maintained a cautious but supportive approach toward Israel, Trump’s shift highlights the complex political dynamics surrounding U.S. responses to the conflict.
The former president has not outlined a detailed Middle East policy but continues to position himself as a critic of the Biden administration’s diplomacy in the region. His team has not responded to requests for comment on the internal deliberations.
