President Donald Trump is increasingly depending on a select group of advisers as he considers potential military action against Iran’s nuclear program. Reports from defense officials reveal that while Trump consults a wide range of allies and officials about his options, his core decision-making team remains small, including Vice President JD Vance, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also serves as the interim national security adviser.
In recent deliberations, Trump has notably distanced himself from National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, who opposes military strikes on Iran, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, despite claims from the Pentagon that Hegseth is actively involved. Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell stated that Hegseth is in constant communication with the President and has been present in critical meetings.
Trump has also been engaging with military leaders, including Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, as he navigates the complexities of the U.S. stance on the Israel-Iran conflict. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that a decision regarding U.S. involvement could be reached within the next two weeks.
This approach marks a departure from traditional presidential practices of foreign policy development before World War II, where structured discussions and thorough preparation were standard. Instead, Trump’s method appears more informal, which may limit the opportunities for challenge and critique of his decisions from senior officials.
This shift in decision-making dynamics became evident after Trump’s unexpected announcement last month lifting sanctions on Syria following talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting the potential disconnect between the President’s actions and the expectations of his administration.
Comments on this situation emphasize the importance of transparent and structured decision-making in matters of national security. As developments unfold, it remains crucial for the administration to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are backed by comprehensive deliberation. The coming weeks will be critical as the President prepares to make potentially significant decisions regarding U.S. military involvement in the Middle East.