The situation is particularly evident in Italy, where Giorgia Meloni is using political maneuvers to condemn the Iranian regime while raising questions about the legality of the war.
“The situation has changed because of this war, and even among her voters, there is discontent,” adds Calenda. “Trump is becoming increasingly unpopular in Italy. This war is not receiving approval.”
Within the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD), with which Trump previously maintained an alliance, a conflict has erupted amid the attack on Iran.
Tino Chrupalla, one of the AfD leaders, criticized Trump, stating that he is turning from a president of peace into a president of “war,” which has caused discontent among Trump supporters, especially considering that his remarks were sharper than those of Chancellor Merz.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, allies of Trump, also expressed condemnation regarding the attack on Iran, emphasizing the negative consequences of the war.
According to Reuters, as there are no clear prospects for ending the conflict, Trump’s aides are trying to influence his decision.
Economic advisors and Treasury officials have warned Trump about a potential oil crisis and rising gasoline prices that could undermine domestic support for the war.
Political advisors, including Chief of Staff Suzy Wiles, are focusing on the possible consequences of rising fuel prices and urging Trump to clearly define the concept of victory and to communicate that the operation is limited and nearly completed.
However, hawkish voices, including Senators Lindsey Graham and Tom Cotton, are calling for continued military pressure on Iran.
Among Trump supporters, such as strategist Steve Bannon and television host Tucker Carlson, there is pressure on the president and his closest aides to avoid getting involved in a new protracted conflict in the Middle East.
Meanwhile…
France and Italy have initiated dialogue with Iran to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz — FT.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, European capitals have begun preliminary discussions aimed at restoring oil and gas exports without escalating the conflict, as shipping companies rely on the naval forces of Western countries to escort their tankers.
France is actively participating in these negotiations, and Italy is also trying to initiate dialogue with Tehran.
Sources emphasize that there are no guarantees of successful progress in the negotiations or Iran's willingness to discuss this issue.
Military ships from Italy, France, and Greece are in the Red Sea as part of an EU mission. However, as officials note, none of the European naval fleets are currently prepared to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, fearing escalation of the conflict.
“The situation needs to be acceptable,” commented a source.
Some European capitals have expressed doubts about the feasibility of attempts to establish contacts.
“Some believe that we need to negotiate with the Iranians. But EU countries have different opinions on this matter, which complicates the process,” noted one of the publication's sources.
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