Tim Walz Stumbles During Vice Presidential Debate, Confuses Israel and Iran Twice

New York: At the much-anticipated vice presidential debate hosted by CBS News in New York, Minnesota Governor and vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz found himself in a difficult position after confusing Israel with Iran during a critical question about rising tensions in the Middle East.

Walz Stumbles on Middle East Question, Confuses Israel with Iran

When asked if he supported Israel launching a retaliatory strike against Iran, Walz hesitated and mixed up the two nations in his response. He first stumbled, and then said, "Iran uhhh... Israel’s ability to defend itself is fundamental." His uncertainty did not go unnoticed, especially in light of the ongoing strain between Israel and Iran, heightened by Iran's recent strikes on Israel.

Walz’s confusion came amid heightened scrutiny of Middle East policies, with the question centered on Israel's right to defend itself following attacks by Hamas, which occurred on October 7 the previous year. While Walz eventually expressed support for Israel’s defense rights, his initial mix-up sparked criticism.

Trump Slams Walz After Debate Gaffe, Calls him ‘Nervous’

Former President Donald Trump quickly seized the moment, mocking Walz on Truth Social. Trump labeled the Minnesota Governor as "nervous" and accused him of being "indoctrinated with lies," highlighting Walz’s apparent discomfort and missteps during the debate.

Trump wrote, “He’s been indoctrinated with LIES, thinking he can override his own INCOMPETENCE. He’s as nervous as you can get!”

Walz’s shaky performance, particularly his confusion between Israel and Iran, drew attention throughout the debate. His halting answers and repeated mix-ups with Israel and Iran gave way to further criticism, particularly when he spoke about "the expansion of Israel and its proxies" — a clear slip, referring to Iran instead.

The debate, which also featured Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, brought to light Walz’s struggle with Middle East policy, a critical issue for U.S. foreign relations, especially at a time of ongoing tension between Israel and Iran.