Six days into the exchange of blows between Israel and Iran, President Donald Trump is weighing a direct attack on Iran. 

The decision would have massive implications — entangling the United States in yet another foreign conflict that some members of Trump’s base say would be a betrayal of his “America First” campaign promise. Trump says he’s issued an “ultimatum” to Iran to dismantle its nuclear program.

How would American involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict further inflame hostilities in the region — and what could retaliation against the U.S. look like?

Host Elahe Izadi speaks with Pentagon reporter Dan Lamothe and investigative reporter Carol Leonnig about this pivotal moment for Trump, the United States and the world.

Today’s episode was produced by Laura Benshoff with help from Emma Talkoff. It was edited by Ariel Plotnick and Maggie Penman. It was mixed by Sean Carter. 

Another story we’re following today: The Supreme Court has ruled that states can ban some gender transition treatments for minors. In December, when the court heard arguments in U.S. v. Skrmetti, Post Reports followed a family at the center of the case. Listen to that episode here.

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