Donald Trump

Overview

Donald Trump is the 47th president of the United States, serving his second non-consecutive term after winning the 2024 presidential election. He ordered the coordinated US-Israeli military strikes against Iran that began on February 28, 2026, initiating one of the most significant US military operations in the Middle East in decades.

Background

Born June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, Trump is a businessman and media personality who entered politics with his successful 2016 presidential campaign. He served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021 before losing the 2020 election. He won the presidency again in 2024.

Iran Policy History

Trump has maintained a consistently hawkish position on Iran throughout his political career. During his first term, he withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) in May 2018, reimposed sanctions, and ordered the killing of IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani in January 2020.

His second term has seen a further escalation of tensions with Iran, culminating in the February 2026 military campaign.

The 2026 Iran Campaign

Trump ordered US forces to participate in coordinated strikes with Israel against Iran on February 28, 2026. The operation resulted in the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and massive damage to Iranian military and civilian infrastructure.

Following the strikes, Trump publicly described the killing of Iran’s leadership as a “great honour” and used inflammatory language to characterize Iran’s government. His comments drew criticism from diplomatic observers who argued the rhetoric undermined prospects for a negotiated resolution.

Domestic Political Context

The Iran war has generated significant domestic debate. More than 250 organizations have called on Congress to halt war funding, while critics have questioned whether the operation was properly authorized under the War Powers Act. Supporters argue the strikes were necessary to address the Iranian threat.

The financial cost of the operation — exceeding $11 billion in the first week — has also become a point of contention, with opponents arguing the funds should be directed toward domestic priorities.

International Relations

The military campaign against Iran has strained relationships with some traditional US allies while strengthening ties with Israel and Gulf states that view Iran as a primary threat. The involvement of Russia and China in providing intelligence support to Iran has added a great power dimension to the conflict.