U.S. lawmakers are divided on the role of the United States in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, with Senate Minority Leader Lindsey Graham advocating for a strong American stance in support of Israel and other lawmakers favoring a diplomatic approach to prevent further escalation. Graham has called on President Donald Trump to fully support Israel should a diplomatic resolution fail, citing national security interests. However, other pro-Israel lawmakers have expressed cautious optimism that Trump can prevent direct U.S. military involvement in the region.
Earlier that day, President Trump had called on Iranian leaders to return to the negotiating table, emphasizing that the United States seeks a nuclear deal to avoid further attacks. Graham praised Trump’s desire to engage Iran diplomatically but argued that if Iran refuses, the U.S. should take a stronger stance in support of Israel to demonstrate its commitment as a reliable ally. He also linked this approach to restoring the United States’ reputation, which he said was damaged by the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Other lawmakers remain cautious about the risk of direct U.S. military involvement. Senator Josh Hawley, R-Mo., stated that he could not envision a scenario in which U.S. troops would be deployed to the region, emphasizing their trust in Trump’s leadership to keep American personnel safe. Hawley noted that Trump had previously offered Iran an opportunity to reengage in negotiations and believed these discussions should continue. Meanwhile, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch expressed similar concerns, reiterating President Trump’s commitment to avoiding unnecessary military action.
Israel’s recent strike on Iran, intended to target the country’s nuclear enrichment infrastructure and key officials, has intensified the tension. Some lawmakers, like Senator Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., supported the strike as a justified response to years of Iranian aggression, but agreed with Trump that diplomacy should be the long-term goal. Others, such as Senator Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., criticized Trump for killing the nuclear agreement and blamed him for accelerating Iran’s potential nuclear development. Kelly argued that the U.S. must remain focused on preventing further regional escalation that could endanger American interests.
The situation remains fluid as the U.S. continues to balance its strategic interests, with lawmakers divided on the appropriate level of involvement. While some argue for a strong backing of Israel, others emphasize the need for diplomacy and caution against direct military engagement. The White House has not yet issued a formal response to the Fox News Digital request for comment, leaving the path forward uncertain in this high-stakes conflict.