Trump Blames Obama as U.S. Launches ‘Defensive Strikes’ Against Iran

However, critics argued the timing effectively amounted to ransom payments that incentivized hostage-taking by the Iranian regime

Trump and his allies have repeatedly argued that Obama’s Iran policies — including the nuclear deal and sanctions relief — helped finance Tehran’s regional military expansion, proxy groups, and missile development programs.

Supporters of Trump’s approach point to recent events as evidence that Tehran responds differently when faced with direct military consequences rather than extended diplomatic negotiations.