California Governor Gavin Newsom faced significant criticism for his remarks on President Trump’s assault on Tehran, describing the coordinated US-Israeli airstrike as an “illegal and dangerous war.”
In a statement posted on social media, he remarked, “The corrupt and repressive Iranian regime should never possess nuclear weapons. Iran’s leadership needs to change.” This was in response to the attacks launched early that day.
However, Newsom added, “This doesn’t give the President the right to start an illegal and dangerous war that puts the lives of American service members at risk without a legitimate cause.”
Newsom’s comments sparked immediate backlash, particularly as they came from a figure some view as a potential 2028 presidential contender. Some critics questioned his consistency, wondering how he could condemn Iran’s nuclear ambitions while also opposing military action against it.
One user on social media challenged him directly, asking, “Which one is it, Gavin? Should they have nuclear weapons or not? If you’re aiming for the presidency, make sure you choose a side.” Another user stood up for Trump, arguing that the President had the constitutional right to order strikes and emphasizing that it wasn’t illegal.
A different commenter noted that Newsom should simply support his country more clearly, suggesting he affirmatively say, “I stand with America.”
Meanwhile, others joked about his situation. One user quipped, “Iran will be free before California,” while another sarcastically asked if sending a basket of fruit would be a better strategy than military action.
Initial reports indicated that the airstrike took place close to the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, following a breakdown in negotiations over Iran’s ongoing nuclear program.
