Latest Politics News
Trump Claims Victory Over Iran in Prime-Time Address
President Trump declared in a White House speech that the US has 'completely decimated' Iran militarily and economically. He offered few details on ongoing operations alongside Israel.
Despite claims, Iran has struck Gulf neighbors and shuttered the Strait of Hormuz, spiking US gas prices.
Strait of Hormuz Closure Disrupts Global Oil Supplies
Iran's move to largely close the Strait of Hormuz has sent US pump prices soaring and disrupted worldwide oil flows. Trump's calls for allies to help reopen it have been rejected, with some awaiting war's end.
France and UK lead post-fighting reopening efforts.
Trump Expresses 'Disgust' with NATO on Anniversary
On NATO's 77th anniversary, Trump voiced disgust over its refusal to aid in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He considered US withdrawal but did not announce it in his address.
This follows NATO allies denying US base access amid the Iran conflict.
Allies Refuse Involvement in US-Led War on Iran
UK's Keir Starmer firmly rejected joining the war despite Trump's criticism, calling it 'not our operation'. France, Italy, and Spain limited or barred US military base use.
Trump initiated strikes with Israel without consulting allies or Congress.
Republicans Push Back on Trump's NATO Withdrawal Threat
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated insufficient votes exist for NATO withdrawal after Trump's threat. Even GOP members emphasize maintaining international ties amid the Iran war.
This highlights domestic political pressures on Trump's 'America alone' approach.
Trump's 'America First' Tested by Iran War Uncertainties
Experts note Trump's assertive style doesn't control overseas events, turning 'America First' into 'America alone'. Princeton's Julian Zelizer highlighted challenges in wartime coalition-building.
The war exposes limits of unilateral action.
NATO Meets Defense Spending Goals Under Trump Pressure
All 32 NATO members now hit 2% GDP defense spending, credited to Trump's haranguing, with a 5% pledge by 2035. However, this hasn't translated to support for Operation Epic Fury against Iran.
Trump called NATO a 'paper tiger'.
Congress Blocks Easy US Exit from NATO
2023 law requires Senate two-thirds or bicameral approval for NATO withdrawal, unlikely under current dynamics. Trump's threats face legal hurdles despite his rhetoric.
This constrains his ability to act unilaterally.
Former Advisor Bolton Criticizes European Stance
John Bolton urged Europeans against 'juvenile' opposition to Trump over consultation lacks in the Iran war. He stressed building coalitions pre-war is key but hard mid-conflict.
Bolton faces his own legal issues from classified leaks.
Global Leaders Rebuke Trump's Unilateral Iran Strike
Allies openly criticize the war Trump chose without broader input, waiting out fighting before aiding. This ally-bashing has real costs, like base denials and Hormuz inaction.
Trump's triumphalism appears misplaced amid surprises.