Trump Urges Iran Nuclear Deal as GOP Lawmakers Split on US Support for Israel

In a rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, U.S. political leaders are sharply divided on the extent of American involvement. President Donald Trump is urging Iranian leaders to return to the negotiating table for a nuclear deal, warning of even harsher consequences if diplomacy fails. His push for a peaceful resolution is clear, yet it’s met with varied responses from lawmakers who stand at a crossroads on how far the U.S. should commit.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., is advocating for an all-in approach to support Israel if Iran rejects Trump’s offer. Graham argues that standing firmly with Israel would not only bolster U.S. credibility after the Afghanistan withdrawal under Biden but also project strength globally. He sees this as a chance to show the world that America is back as a steadfast ally against oppression.

Meanwhile, reports confirm U.S. Navy Destroyers, the USS Sullivans and USS Arleigh Burke, have been actively assisting Israel in intercepting missile attacks from Iran. This military involvement underscores the stakes, even as some pro-Israel lawmakers hesitate to see American boots on the ground. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., trusts Trump to keep U.S. troops out of direct conflict, emphasizing the president’s long-standing offer of an off-ramp through nuclear negotiations—a path he believes Iran should take.

Other voices, like Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch, R-Idaho, echo confidence in Trump’s commitment to avoiding U.S. casualties while navigating this volatile situation. On the flip side, Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., critiques Trump’s past decision to exit the Iran nuclear deal, suggesting it fueled Iran’s progress toward a bomb. Yet, even Kelly calls for de-escalation to protect American lives and interests in the region.

Israel’s recent strikes, targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and key officials, have been deemed warranted by some, like Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., who stands firm on Israel’s right to self-defense against a regime that openly threatens both Israel and the U.S. Still, the consensus among many remains: a diplomatic solution must be pursued to prevent a broader, more dangerous conflict.

As tensions simmer, the question looms—will Iran seize the chance for peace, or are we on the brink of a deeper U.S. entanglement in this geopolitical chess game?