US President Donald Trump has strongly rejected claims that Israel persuaded him to launch military action against Iran, asserting that his decision was rooted in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 terror attacks and his long-standing opposition to Iran developing nuclear weapons.
In a post shared on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump pushed back against media narratives.
“Israel never talked me into the war with Iran, the results of Oct. 7th, added to my lifelong opinion that IRAN CAN NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON, did,” Trump wrote.
Trump Criticises Media, Calls Reports ‘Fake News’
In the same message, Trump criticised what he described as “FAKE NEWS pundits and polls,” claiming that a majority of reporting about the conflict was inaccurate or misleading.
He alleged that many polls were manipulated and compared the situation to controversies surrounding the 2020 US Presidential Election and election outcomes in Venezuela.
The remarks appear aimed at countering criticism from both mainstream media outlets and political commentators who have questioned the motivations behind Washington’s military involvement in the escalating tensions with Iran.
Optimistic Outlook On Iran’s Future
Despite the strong rhetoric, Trump expressed optimism about Iran’s long-term prospects, suggesting that a leadership change in Tehran could lead to significant improvements in the country’s stability and prosperity.
“Just like the results in Venezuela, which the media doesn’t like talking about, the results in Iran will be amazing — And if Iran’s new leaders (Regime Change!) are smart, Iran can have a great and prosperous future!” he added.
Remarks Come Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Trump’s statement arrives during heightened tensions in the Middle East, where diplomatic efforts continue alongside military developments.
The situation has included ceasefire negotiations, maritime security incidents, and ongoing military engagements involving multiple regional players.
Recent developments have included the seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel by US forces and preparations for renewed diplomatic talks in Pakistan, highlighting the fragile nature of the situation.
Trump has consistently maintained a hardline stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, reiterating that preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear-armed state remains a central objective of US foreign policy.