Commentary: Padding Political Pocketbooks - The Real Reason for the Iranian Strikes

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In a scathing commentary, veteran political analyst J. Basil Dannebohm argues that the recent U.S. strikes on Iran have little to do with national security and are instead motivated by Israel's influence over American politicians and the upcoming midterm elections. Dannebohm contends that both Democrats and Republicans in Congress are beholden to pro-Israel lobbying groups like AIPAC, which have deep pockets, and are unwilling to challenge the U.S.'s unwavering support for Israel even as it commits atrocities against Palestinians. He claims the attacks on Iran are simply a way for politicians to appear tough on foreign policy and secure campaign funding from pro-Israel donors ahead of the midterms.

Why it matters

Dannebohm's commentary sheds light on the complex web of political interests and influences that often drive U.S. foreign policy decisions, particularly when it comes to the Middle East. His argument that the strikes on Iran are more about domestic politics than national security raises important questions about the role of special interests, lobbying, and partisanship in shaping American military interventions.

The details

Dannebohm begins by recounting a 2013 tweet from Donald Trump predicting that President Obama would attack Iran due to his "inability to negotiate properly." However, Obama went on to negotiate the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump later scrapped. Dannebohm then lists a series of attacks carried out by the "America First" "Peace President" since returning to office, including strikes on Minneapolis, Chicago, Venezuela, and Iran. He argues that the justifications offered for these attacks are mere "milquetoast" talking points distributed to MAGA influencers. Dannebohm contends that the real reason for the Iran strikes is to serve the interests of Israel and its powerful lobby in the U.S., AIPAC, which has deep financial ties to both Democratic and Republican politicians. He claims that members of Congress from both parties have worked behind the scenes to block votes aimed at stopping the President from waging war with Iran, despite public opposition to the U.S.'s unwavering support for Israel.

• On November 10, 2013, Donald Trump tweeted that President Obama would attack Iran due to his "inability to negotiate properly."
• Last summer, President Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth boasted that the U.S. had "obliterated" Iran's nuclear capabilities.

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