Former President Donald Trump criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Middle East crisis, blaming President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for emboldening Iran following its unprecedented missile attack on Israel. Speaking at a campaign rally in Wisconsin, Trump labeled the attack as a sign of weak U.S. leadership, warning that the situation is dangerously close to a global catastrophe.
Earlier on Tuesday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched 181 ballistic missiles at Israel, marking the most significant missile attack in history. The strikes, which Iran claims were in retaliation for the recent killings of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, were intercepted mainly by Israel’s defense systems. The U.S. also deployed naval destroyers to neutralize the threat, with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stating that the attack was “defeated and ineffective.”
Trump alleged that the Biden administration’s policies have made Iran wealthier and more aggressive, citing a recent deal that released $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for detained Americans. He accused the current administration of making Iran financially strong enough to sponsor terrorism, which he claims wasn’t possible during his time in office.
At a separate campaign event in Milwaukee, Trump reiterated his stance, stating that if Iran were to attack the U.S., the president should retaliate by “blowing the country to smithereens.” He emphasized that solid leadership is essential to prevent further escalation and maintain global stability.
The White House, meanwhile, has condemned Iran’s actions and vowed “severe consequences,” although it has not yet specified what measures will be taken. President Biden and Vice President Harris monitored the attack from the Situation Room and reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel’s right to defend itself against any future threats.
