- President Donald Trump denied that Israel influenced his decision to launch the war against Iran nearly two months ago.
- Trump stated his decision was based on the “results of Oct. 7th” and his long-held belief that Iran should never possess nuclear weapons.
- This denial contradicts earlier statements from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also serves as Trump's national security adviser.
- Rubio previously indicated that Trump was compelled to act preemptively due to an imminent Israeli attack and the likelihood of Iranian retaliation against US personnel.
- The ongoing conflict has significantly impacted global markets and led to soaring energy prices, exacerbated by an Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
IN FULL