Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts Praises Trump’s Iran Strike Ahead of First Israel Visit

Kevin Roberts, president of the conservative Heritage Foundation since 2021, discussed the impact of the U.S. strike on Iran ordered by former President Donald Trump, upcoming U.S.-Israel relations, and rising antisemitism in America in an interview with Libi Alon on Channel 14. Roberts credited the strike with setting back Iran’s military program by 15 to 20 years and said it fundamentally altered the political order in the Middle East. He expressed gratitude for Trump’s decision and hope for a peaceful resolution.

Roberts is scheduled to visit Israel for the first time in October to attend the National Conservatism Conference in Jerusalem, an event co-organized by Heritage board member Yoram Hazoni. He described the trip as both a personal pilgrimage due to his Christian faith and an opportunity to discuss the future of U.S.-Israel relations, which he views optimistically.

Addressing the surge in antisemitism in the U.S. following the October 7 attacks, Roberts highlighted Heritage’s Project Esther initiative, led by Dr. Victoria Coates, which expanded in response to this trend. He noted antisemitism is more prevalent on the American left but acknowledged it exists on the right as well. On the topic of conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, Roberts emphasized Heritage’s commitment to open dialogue rather than censorship, arguing that confronting antisemitic remarks publicly is the best way to expose their harm.

Roberts also commented on the impact of the Iran conflict on the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, calling it a current burden but predicting a conservative victory aided by strong fundraising efforts, including nearly $400 million raised by House Speaker Mike Johnson. He cited Israel as a positive example in Heritage’s family policy advocacy, praising its government’s support for marriage and childbirth.

Regarding federal workforce reductions, Roberts noted a decrease of about 400,000 employees since Trump took office. When asked about Trump’s potential 2028 presidential run, Roberts acknowledged constitutional term limits but added with a smile that Trump could still win again.