Trump Played by Iran, Ex-GOP Strategist Claims

Former Republican strategist Rick Wilson asserts that Donald Trump is being strategically manipulated by Iran, potentially jeopardizing U.S. interests. Wilson, a co-founder of the Lincoln Project, argues Trump’s desire for a Nobel Peace Prize and belief in his deal-making abilities are being exploited, echoing a pattern he suggests also exists with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

In a recent Substack post, Wilson highlighted the increased U.S. military presence in the Middle East and dwindling anti-missile interceptors in Israel, while noting Iran’s continued functionality despite ongoing tensions. He contends Iran is deliberately employing delaying tactics – offering incremental progress towards negotiations – to further leverage the situation, a strategy Wilson playfully refers to as adhering to the “TACO rule” – an investor term referencing Trump’s perceived tendency to back down from commitments, specifically regarding tariffs.

Wilson suggests Iran understands Trump’s motivations and will prolong negotiations with minimal concessions, knowing any delay benefits their position. He points to Trump’s recent statement that Iran is weeks away from nuclear capability, framing it as an unintentional extension of a negotiation window that favors the Iranian government.

While Wilson anticipates a potential military strike by the U.S. against Iran, he believes any postponement will significantly empower Iran. He views Trump’s actions as driven by a desire for recognition, making him susceptible to manipulation by foreign powers. The strategist’s assessment paints a concerning picture of a U.S. president potentially being outmaneuvered on the international stage, with Iran seemingly dictating the terms of engagement. It’s a provocative claim, and while rooted in Wilson’s clear anti-Trump stance, it raises legitimate questions about the dynamics at play and the potential consequences of Trump’s foreign policy approach.