Trump Takes Credit for Israel’s Strike on Iran, Calls for End to Senate Filibuster:

In a surprising statement, U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed personal responsibility for Israel’s initial attack on Iran, contradicting earlier American assurances that Israel acted alone. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Trump said he was “very much in charge” of the operation that sparked the brief but intense conflict earlier this year. “Israel attacked first. That attack was very, very powerful. I was very much in charge of that,” Trump said. “When Israel attacked Iran first, that was a great day for Israel because that attack did more damage than the rest of them put together.” His remarks come as he urges Republicans to eliminate the Senate filibuster, saying his party should move decisively—just as Israel did when it launched its strike on Iran. Trump argued that ending the filibuster would allow the Senate to pass laws with a simple majority, describing it as a bold and necessary step for the country. The Conflict Between Israel and Iran The latest Israel-Iran war began on June 13, when Israel carried out a powerful assault on Iranian military and nuclear targets. The strikes killed several senior Iranian generals, nuclear scientists, and civilians, causing widespread destruction across key facilities. Iran retaliated with hundreds of missile launches aimed at Israel. Soon after, the United States joined the campaign, bombing three of Iran’s main nuclear sites. However, at the time, Washington insisted it had not participated in the initial attack. “Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” then–Secretary of State Marco Rubio said during the first hours of the war. Now, months later, Trump’s claim challenges that official position and suggests that the U.S. may have been directing Israel’s actions from the start. Trump’s comments represent a dramatic shift in the official story. If his claim is accurate, it would mean that the U.S. played a central role in launching one of the most consequential Middle East conflicts in recent years. Analysts warn that this revelation could have major diplomatic and legal implications for Washington. Despite the devastation, Iran maintains that its nuclear program remains viable, emphasizing that its scientific knowledge cannot be destroyed by airstrikes alone. It remains unclear what happened to Iran’s stockpiles of enriched uranium. Politics Behind the Statement Trump’s renewed focus on the Iran conflict coincides with his push to change Senate rules. By comparing legislative reform to Israel’s preemptive attack, he seems to be portraying both as examples of decisive leadership and strength. While Trump once campaigned as a “peace candidate” who opposed new wars, he now boasts that the U.S. “totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities. His comments may appeal to voters who see him as a strong leader, but critics argue they reveal a reckless approach to both domestic and foreign policy. Uncertain Future Although a ceasefire was reached after Iran launched missiles at a U.S. air base in Qatar, tensions remain high. Both Washington and Tehran appear cautious about restarting nuclear talks, and neither side shows urgency to negotiate. For now, Trump’s remarks have reignited debate over America’s true role in the Israel-Iran war, raising fresh questions about transparency, accountability, and the direction of U.S. foreign policy under his administration.

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