Trump accused of 'market manipulation' over Iran strike timing Donald Trump is facing fresh criticism after a former MAGA ally accused his administration of manipulating financial markets by delaying the announcement of US military strikes against Iran until after Wall Street had closed. The claims come as questions mount over the durability of a recently announced ceasefire with Tehran, adding another layer of political controversy to an already volatile Middle East crisis. Timing of Strike Sparks Scrutiny According to reports, the Pentagon waited until after US markets closed on Friday before publicly confirming fresh strikes against Iranian targets. The reported aim was to minimise any immediate impact on financial markets. The strikes followed what Trump described as an Iranian attack on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, which he said breached a recently agreed memorandum of understanding. Iran has disputed that characterisation, saying the ship had entered an unauthorised shipping route. Former Ally Levels Insider Trading Claim The timing prompted sharp criticism from former Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, once one of Trump's closest political allies. Responding to reports on social media, Greene claimed the delayed announcement showed two things: that the ceasefire was failing and that the administration was "manipulating the markets for insider trading." She did not provide evidence to support the allegation. Markets and Messaging Under the Spotlight The criticism follows broader claims from political opponents that the Trump administration has become increasingly sensitive to market reactions, particularly during periods of geopolitical instability. Observers have noted that major announcements relating to Iran have often been released outside trading hours, limiting the opportunity for investors to react immediately. Critics argue the pattern reflects an effort to reduce market volatility, while supporters say governments routinely consider economic stability when releasing sensitive national security information. Political Battle Intensifies The latest dispute is likely to fuel further debate over transparency, market integrity and the administration's handling of the Iran crisis. With military tensions continuing and the ceasefire already under pressure, the political fallout now extends beyond foreign policy, raising fresh questions over how and when critical government decisions are communicated to the public and financial markets. Ex-MAGA darling accuses Trump of 'manipulating stock market for insider trading'
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