John Fetterman urges Dems to support Trump’s Iran stance: 'Why wouldn't we want to be ready?'

WASHINGTON, DC: John Fetterman openly distanced himself from fellow Democrats as he voiced support for Trump’s authority to decide on US military action against Iran, arguing that hesitation within his party was misguided as Tehran faces internal unrest and renewed nuclear concerns.

Speaking during a televised interview on January 13,Tuesday, the Pennsylvania Democrat said it was “entirely appropriate” for the president to have flexibility on foreign policy decisions, particularly when American interests and regional stability are at stake.

John Fetterman says Democratic resistance is 'disappointing'

Fetterman did not mince words while addressing Democratic reluctance to back Trump’s stance toward Iran. “It’s disappointing,” he said, adding that he felt increasingly isolated within his own party for holding the view.

“I was kind of isolated in my party,” Fetterman admitted, reflecting on his support for aggressive measures against Tehran. He argued that the Iranian regime’s actions, including violent crackdowns on protesters, warranted a firm response.

“They’re so desperate they’re executing thousands of their own citizens,” he said, describing what he sees as a collapsing regime struggling to maintain control.

Support for strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities

Fetterman reiterated that he backed earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and maintained that dismantling Tehran’s nuclear ambitions remains critical. “I said, we have to destroy those Iranian nuclear facilities,” he said, warning that continued inaction could embolden further threats. 

He framed his position as less about party loyalty and more about national security.

“The president, I don’t care if it’s a Democrat, Republican, whoever - I think it’s entirely appropriate for him or her to have the flexibility to do these kinds of strategic actions that are in America’s interests,” Fetterman said.

The senator described what some allies have dubbed the “Trump Doctrine” as a pragmatic approach centered on defending Western interests rather than ideological alignment.

Iran unrest and US options in focus

Fetterman’s comments came as President Trump weighs potential next steps after Iran reportedly killed hundreds of civilians amid widespread anti-regime protests. The administration has warned that Tehran is nearing US red lines, even as Iranian officials publicly claim they remain open to diplomacy.

Iran has said it is “prepared for war” while also signaling interest in negotiations over its nuclear program. Trump, meanwhile, has acknowledged that Tehran has reached out about a possible deal, though he stressed that “very strong options” remain on the table.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that Iran’s public statements differ sharply from private communications received by the administration in recent days.

Democrats divided over executive authority

While Fetterman supports Trump’s discretion, others within his party remain uneasy. Some Democrats have raised concerns about bypassing Congress on military action, warning of long-term consequences.

Despite that pushback, Fetterman argued that hesitation could weaken US leverage. “Why wouldn’t we want to be ready to provide a bump to break the Iranian regime?” he asked, emphasizing what he described as a rare opportunity to pressure Tehran at a moment of vulnerability.

The Trump administration has also urged US citizens to leave Iran immediately, citing safety concerns as unrest continues to grip the country.