WASHINGTON – Three days into the unprecedented Israel-Iran conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has reacted exactly how one would expect: claim credit when it suits him, create distance when it doesn't.

Key right-wing figures, including some Trump allies, question the Israeli strikes and warn against a US war with Iran.

The U.S. has unique power to force restraint, but with the offensive on its third day and the death toll rising, there is little sign Trump will wield his leverage.