Leon Panetta criticises Trump’s Iran strategy, warns of escalating conflict

Former US Defense Secretary and ex-CIA Director Leon Panetta has warned that President Donald Trump is facing a difficult situation following three weeks of escalating tensions with Iran, 24NewsHD TV reported on Sunday.

In an interview with British media, Panetta described Trump’s war strategy as “unserious,” saying it appeared to rely more on “wishful thinking” than concrete planning.

He remarked that the US president seemed to believe his statements would translate into reality without a structured policy framework.

Panetta termed the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei a major mistake, warning that it had paved the way for more hardline leadership in Iran.

He also criticised the US administration for failing to prepare for potential retaliatory measures by Iran, particularly the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which he said could trigger a global oil crisis.

According to Panetta, the US now faces limited options and may be compelled to target Iran’s coastal defence systems to ensure the passage of oil tankers—an action he warned could intensify the conflict and lead to increased casualties.

The former defence chief also took a jibe at current US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling him a “supporter” of the president rather than an independent policymaker.

He further criticised the promotional use of war footage and US strikes, terming it inappropriate.

Panetta added that Washington’s failure to apologise for a reported US strike on a girls’ school in Iran had further damaged the country’s global image.