The Briefing with Jen Psaki 'What the hell is going on?': Trump admin unable to explain attack on Iran
33 snips
Mar 5, 2026 
Mark Kelly, U.S. Senator and ex-Navy pilot focused on national security, and Beto O'Rourke, former U.S. Representative turned Texas organizer, join the conversation. They dissect chaotic justifications for strikes on Iran and the risks of unclear military aims. They also explore rising Democratic energy in Texas, turnout boosts, and the high-stakes fights shaping future elections.
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Mixed Messages On Regime Change
- Trump publicly urged Iranians to 'take over your government' while administration officials simultaneously denied any intent at regime change.
- Psaki highlighted the contradiction: a speech calling for uprising versus aides saying 'this is not a so-called regime change war.'
No Clear Timeline Or Strategy
- The administration gave no credible timeline or strategic plan for the campaign, offering only vague windows like 'four to five weeks' and 'we have capability to go far longer.'
- Sen. Mark Kelly warned that absence of goals and plan makes a protracted war with heavy casualties likely.
Confusion Over War Status And Troop Commitments
- Senior Republicans and administration figures contradicted themselves over whether this is a war and whether U.S. troops would be deployed.
- Psaki pointed out comments swinging from 'no boots on the ground' to Trump refusing to rule out troop deployments.