War in Iran.

On the beaches of Normandy, American tourists are divided on the ongoing conflict, but many do not hesitate to draw parallels with the liberation war led in 1944: “in 10 years, Trump will be seen as a hero.”

Every spring, American tourists flock to the historic sites of the Normandy battle. The war against Iran hasn’t dampened their patriotic fervor. They gather on Omaha Beach where American soldiers fought a heroic battle on the morning of June 6, 1944.

The tourists’ itinerary inevitably includes a visit to the American military cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer overlooking the bloody Omaha beach. Many then proceed to the Overlord Museum, a privately owned establishment strategically located near the cemetery entrance.

The frankness of American visitors may surprise those on this side of the Atlantic: they rarely hesitate to show their political colors. Here, many claim to be Republicans. “Yes, I support Trump,” explains Mike, from the state of Georgia. “He had to make a tough choice,” he argues. “Sometimes, it’s good to do bad things for the good to come.”

The massive bombings carried out in Iran also find favor with Wes. “Technology has become so advanced and dangerous that an irresponsible country can now use nuclear weapons to attack countries like France,” affirms this Texan visitor proudly. “I agree with what we’re doing for humanity, for countries like France.”

While most visitors seem to support the war in the Middle East, Americans remain deeply divided. “Many say that America should stay on its territory and take care of its own politics rather than intervene in other countries,” observes Elena Kristesiashvili, one of the guides who welcomes the tourists. She also notes that often, “those who come from democratic states disagree with the war.”

The voice of Americans opposed to Donald Trump’s “excursion” in Iran is perhaps more discreet, but the criticism is no less sharp. A teacher from Minnesota seen on Omaha Beach prays for peace. “I think it’s better to use non-violence and find solutions, like in Cuba, to encourage governments to cooperate more.”

With a serious look, Austin adds with a measured tone: “I don’t think what’s happening in Iran is a good idea. I don’t agree, it’s very violent and people are suffering.” A few meters away, in the shadow of the monument of the brave, Paul reflects. He hails from Maryland on the Atlantic coast. “I don’t want war for my children, and you don’t want war either,” notes this friendly fellow, wearing a cap firmly on his head. “We’ll see how history judges Donald Trump. Will he be a hero? Will he be the villain?” Paul has his own idea: “I think he will be the hero.”