Intro

The Trump administration has been debating a military strike against Iran as tensions with the country escalate. Here’s how we got to this point. Guest: Mark Landler, who covers the White House for The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily.

Background reading:

• President Trump approved military strikes against Iran in retaliation for downing an American drone, but abruptly called them off on Thursday night.
• Mr. Trump has veered between bellicose threats against America’s enemies and promises to get the United States out of foreign wars. He may soon have to choose.
• The United States and Iran, two longtime adversaries, are once again hurtling toward potential crisis. That course was set a year ago.

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