Trump Follows His Gut. His National Security Advisers Try to Keep Up.
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- President Trump revealed that his decision to order the attack on Iran was primarily based on his gut instinct, believing Iran intended to strike first.
- Trump suggested that his action might have preempted an Iranian attack and possibly forced Israel’s hand, though Israel was reportedly prepared.
- Contradictory explanations emerged from officials, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio initially stating the strike was preemptive due to Israeli actions, then later walking back his comments.
- White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later stated that Trump acted because of a "good feeling" that Iran would soon target American interests.
- The episode highlights Trump’s tendency to bypass traditional intelligence and advisory channels, relying heavily on instinct for critical decisions.
