Washington: US President Donald Trump, who once criticized John Bolton for his hawkish foreign policy approach, has found a new ally in Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who has been instrumental in shaping Trump's aggressive stance towards Iran.

According to TRTworld.com, Graham, a long-time advocate for foreign intervention, particularly in the Middle East, has been a driving force behind Trump's current Iran policy, despite previously opposing Trump's candidacy.

Graham's transformation from a vocal critic to a staunch supporter of Trump followed a pivotal meeting in 2017. Known for his interventionist views, Graham has been pushing for military action against Iran, a strategy that contrasts with Trump's "America First" agenda. Under Graham's influence, Trump has engaged in unauthorized military actions against Iran, resulting in significant casualties on both sides and escalating tensions across the Middle East.

The conflict has had widespread repercussions, including increased oil prices and a mass exodus of Americans from the region. Graham has been framing the war as a religious struggle, aligning with evangelical beliefs and portraying Iran as a biblical adversary. His rhetoric has drawn criticism from various quarters, including fellow Republicans and conservative commentators, who have questioned his loyalty and motives.

Graham's call for American families to send their children to fight in the Middle East has sparked outrage, with critics labeling him as out of touch with the American public. Prominent figures such as Meghan McCain and Anna Paulina Luna have condemned his statements, urging the Trump administration to distance itself from Graham's narrative.

The senator's unwavering support for Israel over American interests has also drawn ire from conservative circles, challenging the core of Trump's "America First" policy. Despite the backlash, Graham remains a vocal proponent of the US-Israel alliance and continues to influence Trump's foreign policy decisions.