Story perspectives

Stephen A. Smith Defends Trump on Iran, Critiques Governance

3/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, the sports commentator, defended U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions against Iran on Real Time with Bill Maher, criticizing both parties’ inconsistent stances and Gavin Newsom for failing to provide effective governance.
Smith stated, 'You got a lot of damn nerves' for criticizing Trump after bipartisan agreement on addressing Iran.
Bill Maher humorously criticized Trump's handling and suggested negotiations with Iran are unlikely to succeed.

History

Historical Context

The Iran Nuclear Deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was established on July 14, 2015, involving Iran and six world powers, including the U.S. This agreement aimed to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanction relief. However, it faced significant opposition from U.S. conservatives, including Donald Trump, who later withdrew the U.S. from the deal in May 2018, intensifying geopolitical tensions.

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Story summary

Stephen A. Smith, the sports commentator, defended U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions against Iran on Real Time with Bill Maher, criticizing both parties’ inconsistent stances and Gavin Newsom for failing to provide effective governance.
Smith stated, 'You got a lot of damn nerves' for criticizing Trump after bipartisan agreement on addressing Iran.
Bill Maher humorously criticized Trump's handling and suggested negotiations with Iran are unlikely to succeed.

1 / 2