U.S. President Donald Trump ordered military strikes against Iran, a move that critics call a war of choice but supporters argue was necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. According to columnist Larry Elder, Trump faced opposition from political opponents suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome, those who oppose military action abroad, and public frustration over rising gas prices—though gasoline was higher under Biden and, adjusted for inflation, under Obama. Despite weak poll numbers and the risk of Republican losses in the midterms, Trump acted.
Evidence of Iran's Nuclear Progress
In February 2025, a confidential International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report, obtained by the Associated Press, found that Iran had accumulated 274.8 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity, described as a short technical step from weapons-grade material. By September 2025, another confidential IAEA assessment reported Iran's stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium had increased to over 440 kilograms before Israel launched operations against its nuclear facilities. Iran's negotiators reportedly told Trump's negotiators the regime possessed enough enriched uranium for 11 nuclear bombs.
Failures of the Obama Iran Deal
Supporters of the Obama-era Iran deal overlook two key facts. First, the agreement contained sunset provisions, with key restrictions expiring. Second, Iran was not complying fully; the IAEA repeatedly raised questions about undeclared nuclear material, restricted inspections, and unresolved safeguards issues. Peaceful nuclear programs do not require massive quantities of highly enriched uranium, Elder argues.
Impact of Trump's Action
Three months after the strikes, Iran is significantly weaker. Its military prestige is in shambles, its ability to support terror proxies is diminished, and its nuclear infrastructure sustained serious damage. Elder notes that if Iran violates any agreement, Trump will likely intensify pressure until the regime changes course or collapses. America and the world are better off than before Trump acted, he concludes. The greater risk was waiting too long.
