Bill Maher backs Trump Iran strikes: ‘Nothing in the Middle East was ever going to get better’

WASHINGTON, DC: Bill Maher said he is “cautiously optimistic” about President Donald Trump’s military strikes in Iran, clarifying that he supports the mission “unless he puts boots on the ground.”

The comedian challenged his typical audience by arguing that the removal of the regime would be a form of liberation, noting that he sees “so much happiness” among the Iranian people.

Bill Maher backs Trump’s Iran strikes

During the latest episode of 'Real Time with Bill Maher,' Maher shared a perspective that surprised some in his audience. He pushed back against the typical liberal hesitation regarding foreign intervention, questioning why others fail to see the potential for positive change.

“I just don’t get what liberals don’t get about liberation,” Maher remarked, noting that he perceives “so much happiness” coming from the Iranian public following the strikes.

He defended the necessity of the operation by describing the previous regime as a “fascist theocracy” and stating that “nothing in the Middle East was ever going to get better while they were still there messing everything up.” 

Bill Maher jabs Kamala Harris over Iran strikes

Maher did not hold back when addressing political figures who have spoken out against the escalation.

He specifically took aim at former Vice President Kamala Harris, who had voiced her concerns on social media, stating, “Donald Trump is dragging the United States into a war the American people do not want.”

Maher responded to this sentiment with a sharp jab at her political standing, quipping, “And who knows more about what the American people don’t want?”

This commentary comes as the conflict intensifies following joint US and Israeli strikes that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

While the comedian acknowledged that many expected him to oppose the violence, he told his viewers, “Now, have you expected me to say I hate it? I don’t! Sorry!” He clarified his personal limit for the conflict, reiterating, “When he puts boots on the ground, yeah, then I’ll hate it.”

Trump warns Iran as standoff intensifies

Despite the successful air campaign, the White House is maintaining a firm stance as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian refuses to meet demands for an “unconditional surrender.”

President Donald Trump warned that the nation “will be hit very hard” if resistance continues. Meanwhile, Trump also participated in the dignified transfer ceremony on Saturday commemorating the fallen soldiers.

"It's a very sad day," Trump said on Air Force One after the transfer. He said that the parents of the service members "were so proud" and that such deaths are "always a very sad thing".