The reaction to the attacks in Jordan shows the escalating conflict between the more traditional foreign policy hawks of the GOP and its growing isolationist wing, while both sides rally around Trump’s campaign to return to the White House. This comes as the latter group, spurred on by Trump and cautious of prolonged foreign commitments, becomes more empowered.
Many in that faction have been opposing sending more financial aid to Ukraine in its conflict against Russia for months, resulting in a delay in a foreign aid package due to lack of funds. It remains uncertain how many of them will oppose further involvement in Iran.
Trump criticized the attacks on his Truth Social platform, highlighting President Joe Biden’s weakness as the commander-in-chief, but notably did not endorse a specific response.
“This terrible day is further evidence that we need an immediate return to PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, so that there will be no more chaos, no more destruction, and no more loss of precious American lives,” the former president stated.
Grassroots conservatives appear to support Carlson’s stance in the emerging dispute, with conservative host Jesse Kelly commenting: “Who do you think is going to fight this war for you? We all know it won’t be you getting your hands dirty,” in response to Graham.
Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), a consistent thorn in the side of House GOP leadership, amplified that message on social media.
These Republicans often argue that it is not solely up to the U.S. to engage in military action abroad without significant assistance from allies. Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, himself expressed doubt about whether NATO would support the U.S. in the event of a conflict during a rally on Saturday.
“I don’t believe they’d be there,” Trump commented on NATO.
However, Graham and Cornyn are not the only ones advocating for a swift U.S. response against Iran-backed proxies following the devastating attack in Jordan, which resulted in dozens of injuries in addition to the three deaths.
“The only appropriate response to these attacks must be a powerful military retaliation against Iran’s terrorist forces, both in Iran and across the Middle East,” stated Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) in a release. “Anything less will confirm Joe Biden as a coward unworthy of being commander-in-chief.”
President Joe Biden pledged “we shall respond” during a Sunday event in South Carolina, with other Democrats also calling for the U.S. to address the deadly attack.
“We must hold those responsible accountable for this unjustifiable attack, and take further steps to protect our personnel in the region,” mentioned Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), the vice chair of the House Intelligence Committee, adding he expected to receive more information on the state of play this week.
