President Donald Trump's return to office in 2025 has significantly influenced the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, with his policies and rhetoric playing a pivotal role in shaping the current crisis.
Trump's Role in the Israel-Iran Conflict
1. Reinstating the 'Maximum Pressure' Campaign
In February 2025, Trump reintroduced the "maximum pressure" strategy against Iran, aiming to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence. This included stringent sanctions targeting Iran's oil exports and the revocation of sanctions waivers, leading to economic turmoil within Iran, including a sharp depreciation of the rial .
2. Diplomatic Efforts and Israeli Military Actions
Despite Trump's preference for a diplomatic resolution, Israel launched a large-scale military offensive against Iran on June 14, 2025, targeting nuclear facilities, missile factories, and military leadership. This action, known as Operation Rising Lion, effectively undermined ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations .#
3. U.S. Support for Israel's Actions
While President Trump expressed a desire to avoid conflict, the U.S. provided intelligence and missile defense support to Israel during Iranian retaliatory strikes, highlighting the complex dynamics of U.S. involvement .
Regional Implications
1. Gulf States' Concerns
Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which had previously supported Trump's policies, now express concern that his aggressive stance could destabilize the region. They fear that escalating tensions between Israel and Iran might draw them into a broader conflict .
2. Potential for Wider Conflict
The ongoing hostilities risk drawing in other regional actors, including Hezbollah and possibly Russia, especially if Israeli or U.S. actions in Syria provoke further escalation .
Conclusion
President Trump's policies have significantly influenced the trajectory of the Israel-Iran conflict, with his reinstatement of the "maximum pressure" campaign and support for Israeli military actions contributing to the current escalation.
