What’s Really Happening
On June 21, 2025, the United States bombed nuclear sites in Iran. This isn’t just about a war overseas—it could change how the U.S. government works at home.
Usually, debates about military action focus on weapons, safety, and foreign threats. But there’s something deeper going on. This war might give more power to one part of the U.S. government and weaken its democracy.
After Israel bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities, the U.S. quickly joined in. Former President Donald Trump supported the strikes and even held a military parade for his birthday. That makes it feel like the war is being used for personal or political reasons—not just national safety.
Can Bombing Really Solve the Problem?
History shows bombing rarely solves long-term problems:
In 1998, President Clinton bombed Iraq for a few days, but nothing changed;
In 2003, President Bush began with airstrikes in Iraq, but the U.S. ended up sending troops and starting a long war;
Today, Iran’s nuclear sites are spread out and protected. A few airstrikes won’t stop their progress.
There’s also a big risk that Iran will fight back. This could start a bigger war that pulls in other countries. The U.S. might need to send more troops. The cost—both money and lives—could rise fast.
But beyond the war itself, something more dangerous is happening at home. War often lets presidents grab more power, claiming it’s for safety. This can weaken the normal checks and balances of democracy.
More Power for One Leader?
Trump has been trying to control many parts of the U.S. government—like the Department of Justice, immigration enforcement, and even the National Guard. These groups are supposed to work for the people and the Constitution, not just one leader.
He’s also weakened Congress by threatening shutdowns and blocking spending bills. That means fewer people are involved in important decisions.
This is risky. In an emergency like war, it’s easier for a leader to take more control. We’ve seen this before.
After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the U.S. passed the Patriot Act, giving police and security agencies huge new powers. They could spy on people, arrest them without a warrant, and more. People accepted it at the time, but it reduced privacy and weakened the courts.
If the war with Iran gets worse, leaders could use it as an excuse to ban protests, limit free speech, or control the media. Even the hint of an attack might be used to silence critics.
History warns us. After World War I, Germany’s democracy collapsed, and a leader named Hitler took over. He used war and fear to cancel elections and free speech. War often speeds up the move to dictatorship.
Where’s the Media?
The media is supposed to keep the government honest. But in wartime, it often does the opposite:
In 2003, U.S. news supported the Iraq War based on false claims about weapons;
They used words like “justice” and “defense” to make the war sound good;
People who questioned the war were called unpatriotic.
Today’s media still struggles. Big outlets often rely on government access and ratings. They focus on stories of soldiers and success, while ignoring protestors or different views. That means people may not get the full picture.
Why This Matters for Democracy
American democracy works best when different parts of the government keep each other in check. But during war:
Presidents can use emergency laws to bypass Congress;
Courts may let leaders break rules in the name of safety;
Protests might be shut down or punished;
News outlets may stop asking hard questions.
Also, the U.S. has been supporting governments around the world that don’t respect freedoms. The Trump administration had good relations with leaders in countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Hungary—places known for limiting rights. Supporting these countries sends the wrong message.
Democracy isn’t just about voting. It’s about being able to ask questions, speak freely, and hold leaders accountable. When war becomes an excuse to skip rules, democracy gets weaker.
What Happens Now?
The conflict with Iran is not just about missiles and bombs. It’s about the future of the U.S. system.
One path gives more power to one person, while silencing critics and weakening other parts of government;
The other path is harder: it means slowing down, thinking carefully, and protecting democracy—even during hard times.
The big question isn’t just "Will there be war?"—it’s "Can the U.S. stay true to its democratic values while at war?" If not, the real damage may happen at home, not abroad.
ref: American Democracy Might Not Survive a War With Iran - The Atlantic - Robert Kagan
