Washington, Mar 24:
As questions intensify over the origins of the ongoing Iran war, Donald Trump has appeared to shift responsibility onto his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, suggesting that the push for military action did not originate solely from him.
Speaking at a public event, Trump indicated that Hegseth was among the first to advocate for strikes against Iran, recalling that his defence chief had urged action by saying, “Let’s do it… you can’t let them have a nuclear missile.”
The remarks mark a notable shift in the administration’s narrative, as conflicting explanations continue to emerge about why the United States entered the conflict. Different officials have offered varying justifications—ranging from preventing Iran’s nuclear ambitions to responding to regional threats—highlighting inconsistencies within the administration.
Analysts say such mixed messaging reflects growing scrutiny over the decision-making process behind the war, now entering its fourth week.
The Iran conflict has triggered debate not only internationally but also within political circles in the United States. With no single, consistent explanation for the military action, questions are being raised about who ultimately drove the decision and whether internal disagreements influenced the course of events.
Hegseth, for his part, has ранее maintained that the US did not initiate the conflict but is acting to “finish it,” framing the campaign as necessary to counter Iranian threats.
The conflict, which began in late February, has escalated rapidly, involving large-scale strikes and raising fears of wider regional instability.
Trump’s latest remarks are likely to intensify political debate, as critics argue that shifting blame could indicate divisions within the administration. Supporters, however, maintain that decisions were taken collectively based on national security concerns.
As the war continues, the evolving narrative surrounding its origins is expected to remain a key point of contention both domestically and globally.