Lack of public evidence for imminent Iranian threat fuels scrutiny after U.S. strikes

Politico reports that the Trump administration launched expansive strikes on Iran claiming an imminent threat, but has offered little public or congressional evidence of such a threat and has delayed standard after-action briefings. Critics say the justification appears post hoc or weak, while White House officials emphasize diplomacy and intelligence cautions that Iran’s long‑range capabilities — though a concern — would take years to develop. The piece also notes CIA involvement in timing and questions from lawmakers about authorization and the overall rationale for the operation.