Trump says he ordered U.S. strikes on Iran over imminent threat, sparking regional conflict and higher oil prices.

President Trump defended U.S. strikes on Iran, asserting he acted independently to prevent an imminent Iranian attack, despite conflicting claims that the U.S. responded to Israeli plans. He claimed Iran was preparing to strike first and that his actions may have influenced Israel’s timing. The White House clarified the decision stemmed from Iran’s failure to negotiate seriously on nuclear limits and the need to dismantle its missile capabilities. The operation has expanded to include strikes in Lebanon against Hezbollah, with Iran retaliating across the Gulf, spiking global energy prices. While some Republican allies backed the move, critics questioned the legality and wisdom of unilateral action ahead of the midterms.