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Trump Mindful of GOP Divisions: Pollack on Israel, Iran
Bloomberg Televisionยท 2025-06-20 22:35
Geopolitical Strategy & Considerations - The U S is weighing factors related to Iran's nuclear program, with President Trump considering both personal and national interests in his decision-making process [1][2] - President Trump faces a divided constituency, balancing traditional conservative internationalists who want to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons with a neo-isolationist MAGA base opposed to intervention [3] - A key consideration for the U S is avoiding a long-term engagement or "forever war," while also aiming to potentially end the Iranian nuclear threat [4] - The destruction of Iran's nuclear program would be a significant blow to the regime, potentially undermining its stability [7] - Ayatollah Khamenei, despite not being liked, is considered a prudent and strategic thinker who has historically shown respect for American military power [7][8] Potential Military Actions & Consequences - A potential U S strike on Fordo or other Iranian nuclear sites, while devastating, may not end Iran's nuclear program [6][9] - The most critical issue is preventing Iran from rebuilding its nuclear program after any potential strike [10] - Iran possesses approximately 300 kilograms of highly enriched uranium, enough for about ten nuclear weapons, along with unaccounted-for centrifuges [12] - Israel may have a plan to take down Fordo without U S intervention, potentially mitigating the need for a broader U S military engagement [17][19] - The U S could focus on preventing Iran from reconstituting its nuclear program, with the threat of U S force serving as a deterrent [19]