One thing is certain: If America joins Israel in its war against Iran, the outcome will be a geopolitical showdown that could dramatically alter the world as we know it. It is the storm of the 21st century and, for the moment, the American ship of state is sailing right into it. At a minimum, Trump should demand answers from his civilian and military advisors to four important questions.

• What is the American purpose in waging war against Iran?
• How will U.S. military power achieve the objectives?
• What is the desired end state? What does the President want Iran and the region that surrounds it to look like when the fighting ends?
• What is the strategic cost to the American people if Washington declines to participate in a regional war begun by Israel?