Published on March 30, 2026
One month after the onset of Operation Epic Fury, a joint military campaign launched States and Israel against Iranian military installations, attendees at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Texas are deeply divided on the issue. The operation, which commenced on February 28, has ignited fervent debates among conservatives regarding its implications for national security, foreign policy, and the conservative movement’s core values.
For many at CPAC, the war in Iran represents a necessary stand against what they perceive as an aggressive regime threatening both regional stability and American interests. Proponents of the operation argue that decisive military action is essential to curb Iran’s influence in the Middle East and prevent further nuclear proliferation. “It’s time to take a strong stance against tyrants who threaten our allies and our way of life,” stated one attendee, a defense contractor from Dallas who has long advocated for assertive U.S. military engagement abroad.
However, not all conservatives share this outlook. A significant faction at the conference expressed skepticism about the war, warning of potential overreach and unintended consequences. Critics cite the lengthy U.S. engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan as cautionary tales, arguing that further military involvement could lead to another protracted conflict with high costs in both treasure and lives. “We need to prioritize America first, and that includes avoiding unnecessary wars that don’t serve our national interests,” remarked a libertarian-leaning delegate from Virginia.
The division within the conservative ranks at CPAC reflects broader concerns about military engagement and the role of America on the world stage. Some attendees advocate for a return to non-interventionist principles, emphasizing diplomacy over military action. “We should be exploring all avenues of negotiation before resorting to bombs and bullets,” said a speaker during one of the panel discussions, echoing sentiments common among more isolationist conservatives.
As Operation Epic Fury continues, the situation is further complicated dynamics. With 2024 presidential elections on the horizon, many Republican candidates are weighing in on the conflict, shaping their positions on military engagement to appeal to their bases. Some candidates are leveraging hawkish rhetoric to bolster their national security credentials, while others are adopting a more cautious stance, reflecting public wariness over foreign entanglements.
Attendees at CPAC are acutely aware of these political calculations, and discussions often turn to how figures in the party might navigate this contentious issue in the coming months. The implications of the war in Iran could dramatically influence candidate platforms, potentially reshaping the landscape of the GOP.
As the conflict develops, American conservatives remain in a state of flux about Operation Epic Fury. The diversity of opinions on the matter suggests that the conservative movement must reckon with its identity in the context of foreign policy—a challenge that could have lasting impacts as the war progresses and political campaigns heat up.
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