Lindsey Graham’s Iran Trigger Finger Needs Adult Supervision

In this PJ Media article, David Manney argues that Lindsey Graham may be right to view Iran as a serious threat, but wrong to treat another round of U.S. strikes as the obvious next move.

• Sen. Lindsey Graham is calling for possible U.S. strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, including targets tied to oil exports and Kharg Island.
• The article frames Graham as a defense hawk whose instinct is often to escalate militarily when confronting hostile regimes.
• Manney does not minimize Iran’s threat, noting the regime’s support for terrorism, regional aggression, nuclear gamesmanship, and continued missile, drone, and maritime capabilities.
• The piece cites recent U.S. military testimony claiming American strikes badly degraded Iran’s defense industry and disrupted Tehran’s ability to support Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas.
• Still, the author argues Iran has been weakened but not fully broken, meaning Washington should avoid confusing pressure with impulsive escalation.
• The core concern is that striking Iranian energy infrastructure could send shockwaves through global energy markets, hurting American drivers, truckers, farmers, businesses, and families already battling high costs.
• Manney also points out that Graham represents South Carolina, a state with a major defense-sector footprint, suggesting voters can fairly weigh both his beliefs and the economic interests surrounding military policy.
• The article concludes that Trump should maintain pressure on Iran through sanctions, isolation, naval readiness, military deterrence, and targeted options without letting Graham’s urgency dictate the timeline.
• The author’s preferred posture is strength with restraint: keep Tehran nervous, keep force available, but avoid rushing into another conflict without “adult supervision.”

Read the full story: https://pjmedia.com/david-manney/2026/05/17/lindsey-grahams-iran-trigger-finger-needs-adult-supervision-n4952973