Trump’s Response to Iran Should Mirror Ronald Reagan’s Response To Lebanon
The Iranian attack that occurred on June 23rd, 2025 on the U.S. military base in Qatar must elicit a proactively diplomatic long-term response. Specifically, Donald Trump’s Administrative response to Iran’s attack on the U.S. base must take concurrent action as Reagan did with Beirut. Rather than escalate into conflict with any nation, either directly or by proxy, Trump must remain neutral and withdraw the presence of American troops.
The wild war-cries of the Donald Trump Administration seem publicly onboard with an immediate escalation of war, thereby bringing the nation into a physical conflict, (WhiteHouse). Trump’s administration harbors a maleficent influence, with the objective to persuade the U.S. Commander in Chief to act offensively. But war is not what Donald Trump was elected to do; nor is it a strength of his administration. Donald Trump must instead turn his focus on mediation between Israel and Iran; whilst taking a direct formal bilateral approach to Iran’s government.
Reagan’s Administration
In 1983 a truck carrying 2,000 pounds of explosives crashed though military barriers, and exploded into a four-story concrete building—tragically killing over 200 U.S. servicemen, (ReaganLibrary). In response, Ronald Reagan did not declare war on Iran; “Reagan responded by adopting a tough policy championed by Shultz and McFarlane, now National Security Advisor,” (State). The Department of State (DoS) notes that “[t]hough Reagan publicly proclaimed that the perpetrators of the October 23 bombings ‘must be dealt justice,’ U.S. forces did not join their French counterparts in attacking an Iranian Revolutionary Guards barrack in the Biqa‘ that November,” (State). On February 7, 1984, Reagan “announced that the Marines would withdraw offshore,” (State). Under these circumstances, Trump could announce the withdrawal of troops, or open negotiations with Iranian leaders.
While “Reagan’s decision to withdraw the Marines remains controversial,” it did not result in war. Notably, and concurrent with the majoritarian will of contemporary Americans. On one hand; “[s]upporters argue that it did not make sense to sacrifice American lives and resources,” (State). On the other hand, “critics . . . claim that Reagan failed to stand firm against terrorism” painting the America as an “undependable ally” (State). The bottom line, the Reagan Administration responded with diligence, not debauchery. America can only hope that Donald Trump’s administration responds similarly.
MAGA Divided
Now, as neoconservatives and institutionalists gear up for war against Iran and the world; libertarians and the alternative right are distancing themselves from the Trump Administration’s mainstream agenda. Rather than represent the electorate as intended by the U.S. Constitution, Trump now panders to the members of his administration.
Like the Trump Administration, the Reagan administration was divided over how to respond to Israel, (State). Emissary Robert McFarlane of the Reagan Administration “later contended that Reagan had authorized U.S. participation in the strikes, but [Secretary of Defense Caspar] Weinberger refused to follow through on his order,” (State). Regardless of Trump’s position on the Iran matter, his administration stands to ensure the resulting actions of his administration comport with the expectations of his electorate.
Yet contemporary U.S. foreign policymakers are reminded that Reagan’s popularity came not from his former achievements; it was from his character whilst in office. Although Reagan did not himself opt for the best decisions, his willingness to delegate his authority to members of his administration—catalyzed by his wife, Nancy Reagan. Donald Trump must now revisit the examination and removal of the blood thirsty members of his administration. The unanimity of the Republican electorate depends on it.
Bibliography
ReaganLibrary. (Accessed on June 23rd,2025). Address to the Nation on Events in Lebanon and Grenada. https://www.reaganlibrary.gov/archives/speech/address-nation-events-lebanon-and-grenada
State. (Accessed on June 23rd, 2025). The Reagan Administration and Lebanon, 1981–1984. https://history.state.gov/milestones/1981-1988/lebanon
WhiteHouse. (Accessed on June 23rd, 2025). https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/2025/06/what-they-are-saying-president-trumps-display-of-peace-through-strength/