Netanyahu Warns Trump of Iran Shift Amid Intelligence Debate Over Military Action

The Wall Street Journal published a critical article examining former U.S. President Donald Trump's handling of the conflict with Iran, revealing internal debates before the February military campaign. According to the report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior U.S. officials portrayed Iran as historically vulnerable, presenting an opportunity to disrupt its nuclear program and destabilize the regime. However, then-Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard cautioned Trump that assassinating Iran's Supreme Leader could provoke a more extreme leadership and trigger severe regional consequences, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on U.S. forces and allies.

The article also highlights warnings from U.S. military leaders about potential casualties, ammunition depletion, and strain on already burdened forces. Vice President J.D. Vance initially advocated exhausting diplomatic options first, noting Iran's economy was already under heavy sanctions and that failure in negotiations would justify military action. Despite these concerns, Trump ultimately opted for a military approach based on Pentagon advice.

The report portrays ongoing fighting as evidence of the Trump administration's difficulty in converting military gains into a political settlement. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps remains dominant, and the regime under Mojtaba Khamenei shows no signs of yielding. Meanwhile, Trump shifted from military force to intensified economic pressure through sanctions and a naval blockade. The White House responded by emphasizing the damage inflicted on Iran's military and nuclear capabilities and reaffirmed its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, stating that the ball is now in Tehran's court.