A significant rift is forming within the MAGA movement as former President Donald Trump considers launching U.S. military strikes against Iran to support Israel’s ongoing campaign. The potential shift toward intervention has drawn criticism from prominent “America First” figures, including Tucker Carlson and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who argue that any military action contradicts Trump’s longstanding opposition to foreign wars. Carlson, speaking on Steve Bannon’s podcast and in his newsletter, warned that supporting an attack on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would mark Trump’s betrayal of his anti-interventionist promises. This backlash has reportedly prompted Trump’s team to conduct private outreach to calm the base. Trump later claimed that Carlson privately apologized for his initial comments.

The conflict has also spilled into Trump’s administration. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, an outspoken anti-war advocate, was sidelined after issuing a public warning about nuclear escalation. Vice President J.D. Vance defended Gabbard’s loyalty but criticized Iran for failing to negotiate. Meanwhile, pressure from Israel is mounting as it targets Iranian military and nuclear facilities and requests U.S. assistance to strike the heavily fortified Fordow Enrichment Center. Israel lacks the bunker-busting weaponry needed to penetrate Fordow, increasing dependence on U.S. support. Trump has not approved the strike and is reportedly waiting two weeks to allow for potential diplomatic engagement. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Iran may send a delegation for direct talks. As geopolitical stakes rise and internal divisions widen, Trump must decide whether to uphold his anti-war brand or respond with force, making the next two weeks critical.