Calling for unwavering support for Israel and Ukraine, Steve Forbes warned that U.S. hesitation could risk global stability.
In a video published on Forbes Breaking News, the longtime political commentator and business leader said the coming weeks will test the resolve of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
“The world is watching how the U.S. responds,” Forbes said. “Backing down now would send the wrong message to both our allies and our enemies.”
On Iran and Israel
Forbes focused heavily on Israel’s current military operations against Iran. He said the U.S. should provide “appropriate support” and allow Israel to finish the job—eliminating Iran’s nuclear program and its missile capabilities.
He criticized past suggestions from Trump officials that Iran might be allowed to continue a peaceful uranium enrichment program.
“That now looks to be off the table,” he said.
Forbes added that negotiation talk should not distract from the “fundamental task” of neutralizing Iran’s nuclear efforts. He also called for full freedom for Israel to target Iran’s allied groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
On Putin and Ukraine
Turning to Ukraine, Forbes expressed concern over what he sees as a growing disconnect in Washington regarding Russia’s invasion.
“Too many people still underestimate Putin,” he said. “Despite massive losses, he thinks he can grind his way to victory.”
Forbes cited past U.S. misjudgments of Vladimir Putin’s intentions, recalling how former President George W. Bush once claimed to see a trustworthy partner in the Russian leader.
“He looked into Putin’s eyes and claimed to see his soul,” Forbes said. “That was a mistake.”
Forbes warned that if the U.S. and NATO scale back weapons shipments to Ukraine, Putin will gain ground and push for further concessions.
“That kind of abandonment would echo the Munich Agreement of 1938,” he said, referencing the failed deal that tried to appease Hitler.
Concerns Over Trump’s Comments
Forbes also addressed concerns surrounding recent remarks by former President Donald Trump.
Trump has floated the idea of bringing Russia back into the G7 and even including China, potentially rebranding it as the G9.
He has also suggested that Putin could play a role in mediating peace between Israel and Iran—something Forbes strongly disagrees with.
“Those ideas stir deep anxieties,” he said. “They risk undermining U.S. credibility.”
Final Message
Forbes ended his message with a clear recommendation:
“Help Israel eliminate the Ayatollahs’ threat. Arm Ukraine to stop Putin. That’s the path to peace.”
