Trump Consults Small Adviser Group Before Possible Iran Strikes

President Donald Trump is deliberating over whether to authorize U.S. military action against Iran's nuclear program, consulting a limited group of close advisers including Vice President JD Vance, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. While Trump seeks broader input from allies and supporters, his decision-making circle has notably excluded figures like National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, who opposes strikes on Iran, and he has not routinely consulted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, though the Pentagon denies his sidelining. Among Trump's inner circle, there is a spectrum of views, with some favoring restraint and diplomacy, aligning with Trump's emphasis on protecting American troops and assets. Trump maintains that stopping Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons aligns with his America First principles, emphasizing a careful, strategic approach rather than initiating a prolonged war, which resonates with his MAGA base. This approach reflects a continuation of Trump's broader foreign policy pattern of avoiding endless conflicts while protecting U.S. security interests. The debate on intervention has caused divisions among Trump's supporters and allies, highlighting the complexity of the decision ahead.