CNN Inside Politics Trump Contradicts Rubio on Iran Attack
Mar 3, 2026
Nic Robertson, CNN international diplomatic editor in Riyadh, reports on embassy closures and regional security. Kristen Holmes, Senior White House correspondent, breaks down conflicting White House messaging. They discuss who pushed Israel into action, recent strikes and threats across the Gulf, and the political fallout and global consequences of the unfolding Iran conflict.
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Trump Undercuts Rubio On Who Forced The War
- President Trump publicly contradicted Secretary of State Marco Rubio about who forced the U.S. into military action against Iran.
- Trump said he "might have forced Israel's hand," while Rubio had argued the U.S. followed Israel preemptively to prevent a predicted Iranian strike.
Mixed Messaging Sparked MAGA Backlash
- The administration shows internal mixed messaging on rationale for action, prompting alarm among Trump's base.
- Kristen Holmes noted Rubio's comments prompted uproar and Trump later course-corrected in the Oval to reassure supporters.
Iran Still Capable After Major Strikes
- Despite Trump claiming Iran's Navy and Air Force were knocked out, Iran continued launching missiles and drones across the region.
- Oren Lieberman explained Iran retains many drones and short-range ballistic missiles and can keep striking Gulf targets.