3 reasons the US strike was ‘America First’

In the heated aftermath of the US strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, “America first” critics are already painting the operation as reckless, escalatory, or simply a favor to Israel. But let’s be clear: this wasn’t about helping an ally at America’s expense. It was a textbook case of putting “America First” into action. As an Israeli, I deeply appreciate that this move was good for Israel — but as an American, I celebrate it as good for the United States. Here are three reasons why.

1. Deterrence Is American Security Doctrine

Iran has spent years testing the limits of US resolve. From harassing international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to funding regional proxies that target American troops and diplomats, the Iranian regime has long calculated that Washington would talk more than it would act. In the wake of attacks on US personnel and interests across Iraq and Syria, it seemed as though Islamic Republic would continue to operate with impunity.

The US strike on Iran’s military sites wasn’t just a retaliation — it was a signal. It reminded the world that while America may prefer diplomacy, it still has teeth. And when its troops are targeted or its red lines crossed, it will respond. This is essential to American credibility. A clear, decisive response to Iranian aggression shores up the global perception that the US stands by its people, its military, and its word.

2. Stability in the Gulf Means Lower Energy Costs and Stronger US Economic Interests

While the US is no longer as dependent on Middle Eastern oil as it once was, energy markets remain globally interconnected. When Iran threatens the free flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz — through which nearly 20% of global oil passes — it’s not just a regional issue. It’s an American economic issue.

Every time Iran stirs instability, global energy prices react. This trickles down to American consumers through higher gas prices and greater uncertainty in supply chains. And when Iran emboldens (and funds) its proxy group, the Houthis, to attack commercial shipping in the Red Sea, global trade routes are disrupted, leading to delays and cost hikes in everything from cars to electronics.

The US strike, by hitting Iran’s military command and control assets, wasn’t just about punishing a regime for its hostile behavior. It was about preempting further destabilization that could roil energy markets and hurt American consumers. Fewer geopolitical shocks mean steadier prices and greater economic security at home.

3. Preventing an Anti-American Regime from Obtaining Nukes

Look, there’s nothing more American than preventing a regime that frequently chants “Death to America!” from obtaining nuclear weapons. If Iran actually passed the point of no return and built the atomic bombs that they were poised to reach, they would not only capable of unleashing untold disaster on Israel, they would be able to reach the US too.

Iran’s intercontinental ballistic missiles can reach US territory, if they chose to escalate that far. Iran is also deeply entrenched in Venezuela and other Latin American countries, and could use them as a launching pad from which to attack the US.

“Death to America” is not just a slogan. It’s a battlecry. And when the regime that is illegally working toward nuclear weapons is inciting its people to chant it regularly, the US should take the combined threat completely seriously.

Thank you, USA

Of course, the strike also sent a clear message to Israel’s enemies: the US won’t stand by idly while its partner is surrounded by Iranian-funded threats. That’s a welcome signal after nearly two years of Israel fighting an existential multi-front war with Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.

But this strike wasn’t about doing Israel a favor. It was about doing what’s right for America: restoring deterrence, protecting economic interests, and defending the US itself from the threat of a nuclear Iran.

It’s important to understand what “America First” really means. It’s not isolationism. It’s not appeasement. It’s the careful, considered use of American power to protect American lives, interests, and values — sometimes far from home, but always with the home front in mind.

The strike on Iran was not just justified. It was necessary.

And it was America First.