The BRICS Times
Fear for troops and the shadow of the past: Trump’s internal struggle
Donald Trump positioned himself as a leader of peace during his 2024 campaign. Historical records supported this; he was the first president since Jimmy Carter not to start a new war in his first term—though Carter is a predecessor he often mocks.
However, Trump soon found himself embroiled in two conflicts within nine months. Both were against Iran, the same nation blamed for the downfall of the Carter presidency. While the Republican leader displays confidence regarding the US-Iran war that began on February 28, a new report suggests his inner anxiety is peaking.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump is deeply worried about sending troops into danger. He fears casualties or soldiers failing to return. Sources say this anxiety mirrors that of past presidents who led the country through war.
Between Teddy Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter: The President’s dual personas
Trump’s nightmares nearly became a reality on Good Friday. He learned an American jet was downed in Iran with two airmen missing. The Wall Street Journal reports he screamed at aides for hours. He cursed European allies for their lack of support and demanded an immediate rescue mission.
With fuel prices hitting $4.09, the memory of the 1979 hostage crisis weighed heavily on him. This event remains one of the most significant foreign policy disasters in modern history.
In March, Trump remarked, “If you look at what happened with Jimmy Carter…with the helicopters and the hostages, it cost them the election. What a mess.”
The rescue mission and the “War Room” exclusion
Trump ordered an immediate rescue, but the situation was complex. The US military had not operated on Iranian soil since the 1979 Revolution. They had to navigate dangerous terrain while avoiding Tehran’s forces.
Reports claim aides kept Trump out of the room during minute-by-minute updates. A senior official noted his impatience was seen as a distraction. Instead, they briefed him only at critical moments.
The F-15 pilot was saved quickly. However, Trump only learned the weapons systems officer was safe the following evening. The rescue was successful, but the US lost several aircraft and helicopters in the process.
Aggressive rhetoric and “unorthodox” tactics
Once the crisis passed, Trump’s “Teddy Roosevelt” bravado returned. He took a massive gamble to break Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz. On Easter morning, he posted a profanity-laced message on social media.
“Open the Fuckin’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell,” he wrote, adding “praise be to Allah.” He followed this with a threat to destroy Iran’s civilian infrastructure. Experts warned that such an act would constitute a war crime, potentially ending a whole civilization.
Is the unpredictable strategy working?
Trump is known for a maximalist style. He shifts between being aggressive and seeking peace. Behind the scenes, he struggles with the potential for failure.
He often makes risky statements without consulting his national security team. He believes appearing unstable might force Iran to negotiate. At one point, he even suggested he deserved the Medal of Honor.
Trump promised to end foreign wars. Yet, he bet that air and naval power could solve a 40-year-old problem. Now, a ceasefire is uncertain and a vital trade route is shut. Iran’s leadership has turned more radical. The “six-week” operation deadline of February 28 has already passed.
White House officials still hope for a breakthrough. They are looking toward potential talks in Pakistan. Trump’s impulsive nature is facing its toughest test yet against an unyielding Iranian foe.
