UMVA has learned that Senator Lindsey Graham, a vocal supporter of the war in Iran, took a surprising swipe at President Trump on Saturday, criticizing any potential deal to end the conflict.
Graham attacked the idea of a deal, suggesting it would be a surrender that concedes dominance to Iran. He warned that if a deal is struck because the Strait of Hormuz cannot be protected from Iranian terrorism, Iran will be perceived as a dominant force, requiring a diplomatic solution.
This outcome, Graham said, would be "a nightmare for Israel." He questioned the point of the war if Iran is allowed to maintain its military capabilities and terrorist activities in the region.
Graham's comments are a stark contrast to his previous stance on the war, where he constantly urged Trump to escalate offensive operations and expand the scope of the conflict. He had even encouraged South Carolinians to "send their sons and daughters over to the Mideast" to die for the war.
Recall that Graham had called for the US to "go all-in to help Israel finish the job" after Israel started a brief war with Iran. Shortly after, Trump ordered strikes on Iran's nuclear sites.
Now, with a potential deal on the horizon, Graham is unhappy that the war he championed may be coming to an end. President Trump had a conference call scheduled with Gulf leaders on Saturday, saying the US and Iran are "getting a lot closer" to a peace agreement.
Trump reportedly considered launching fresh strikes in Iran but seemed uncertain, saying he's at a "solid 50/50" on either striking a deal or sending bombs to "blow them to kingdom come."
However, after a new proposal from Iran, which included the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and talks with Arab leaders, a deal is being finalized, potentially avoiding further conflict.