The Trump administration is facing criticism from both Democrats and Republicans over contradictory statements about Iran's threat level and the rationale for military action. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied Iran posed any threat to the US homeland, contradicting earlier administration claims of "imminent" threats that justified joining Israel's attack on Iran. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy highlighted the contradiction, questioning why the US is at war if Iran poses no threat.
The military engagement began on February 28 when President Trump announced strikes "to prevent this dictatorship from threatening America." Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously described an "imminent" threat from Iran. However, Leavitt's recent dismissal of FBI warnings about potential Iranian drone strikes on California's coast has undermined the administration's security justifications for the conflict.
Pentagon officials briefed lawmakers that the war's cost has already exceeded $11.3 billion in its first six days, though the true financial impact remains unclear. Oil prices have surged over 9% to around $100 per barrel as the conflict disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Two crude tankers reportedly caught fire at an Iraqi port following suspected Iranian attacks, while dozens of oil-laden vessels remain stranded.
Trump sparked additional controversy by celebrating rising oil prices on social media, writing that the US "makes a lot of money" when prices increase since America is the world's largest oil producer. Democratic Senator Mark Kelly criticized this stance, arguing that only oil companies benefit while ordinary Americans face higher fuel costs. The administration has yet to provide a comprehensive justification for the military action or address concerns about escalating expenses.