Trump's 'Gut Instinct' on Iran Risked War, New Book Claims

A new book reveals a critical moment when former U.S. President Donald Trump relied solely on his personal instinct over official warnings, a decision that heightened global tensions. The account details the period following the 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed a top Iranian general. In response, Iran launched missile strikes at bases housing American troops in Iraq. According to the book, senior U.S. military officials urgently warned President Trump that Iran was preparing a further, major missile attack. They advised a strong U.S. military counter-strike to deter Iran. President Trump reportedly rejected this advice. He instead stated he would follow his "gut instinct" not to escalate, deciding against the recommended retaliation. This choice averted a potential wider war but carried significant risk. The book further states that Australia, a close U.S. ally, was put on high alert during this crisis. Australian military and diplomatic assets in the region were reportedly exposed to the immediate danger, illustrating the global stakes of the unilateral decision.