President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) as his incoming national security adviser, adding a prominent Israel supporter and staunch Iran critic to his team.
Known for his conservative approach to foreign policy, Waltz brings extensive experience in national security: he’s a former Green Beret, an ex-policy official at the Pentagon, a previous CEO of a defense contracting firm, and a subcommittee chair on the House Armed Services Committee. He also serves on the Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees.
Waltz has consistently advocated for strong U.S. backing of Israel and a firm stance against Iranian influence. After Israel’s recent response to an Iranian ballistic missile attack, he suggested that Israel should have targeted strategic sites like Kharg Island, vital to Iran’s oil exports, and the Natanz nuclear facility.
He questioned whether U.S. officials pressured Israel to restrain its response. In an interview with Jewish Insider in September, Waltz criticized the Biden administration for pressuring Israel to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas, urging instead for increased pressure on Hamas and its Iranian supporters. He also expressed doubts about a U.S.-proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
* The Jewish Insider contributed to this article.
