WSJ: "Trump Approved Iran Attack Despite Being Warned of Hormuz Blockade Risk"

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on March 13 (local time) that President Donald Trump approved an attack on Iran even after receiving an advance report about the possibility that Iran could block the Strait of Hormuz.

Dan Main, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, and former US President Donald Trump (rear). Photo by Yonhap News

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According to the WSJ, Dan Main, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, reported before the war that "a US attack could trigger Iran to block the Strait of Hormuz." However, President Trump was said to have taken the position that "Iran is more likely to yield before attempting a blockade, and even if a blockade is attempted, the US military would be able to respond."

With the strait now effectively blocked, the US Department of Defense is expressing concern. Unless Iran's coastal defense assets-including ships, drones, and missiles-are destroyed, US Navy vessels escorting oil tankers could become targets. US military officials believe the war could continue for at least several more weeks.

The WSJ pointed out that only a small group, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, participated in these war discussions, limiting the information and advice available to President Trump. Some senior officials in charge of Middle Eastern affairs reportedly only learned of the war through media reports after the bombing began.

Meanwhile, international oil prices have surged past 100 dollars per barrel, sending further shockwaves through the global economy.

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