George Katsiaficas, author and university professor, says the decision by Donald Trump to leave Turkey using an airport catering vehicle reflects fear within the US administration.
Katsiaficas argues that the episode exposes Trump’s true character, accusing him of putting his own safety ahead of the people around him by leaving without informing his staff members who remained on the plane.
He says the incident is also symbolic as a shift in the balance of power, arguing that Iran has gained the upper hand and that Washington is now increasingly concerned about the possibility of Iranian strikes.
Katsiaficas further contrasts Trump’s actions with those of Iran’s leadership, saying late Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei remained focused on the country’s needs rather than his own safety. He argues that Trump is now consumed by paranoia and fear over the consequences of the war.
