US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday called Israel’s attack on Iran a “unilateral action.” He said the US had no role in the Israeli airstrikes.
His statement came hours after Israel launched major airstrikes on Iran. The attack sharply raised tensions in the region and sparked fears of a wider conflict.
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran. Our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said. He added that Israel had informed the US it believed the strikes were necessary for its self-defence.
“President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces. We remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,” he added.
US Issues Security Alert for Citizens in Israel
The US Department of State issued a security alert for US citizens in Israel. The alert came amid rising tensions following the Israeli airstrikes.
“Due to high tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly. We remind US citizens in Israel and the broader region of the continued need for caution,” the alert stated. The Department advised citizens to monitor the news for updates.
US President Donald Trump also addressed the situation. He spoke hours before Israel launched its strikes on Iran. “I don’t want them going in because, I mean, that would blow it,” Trump said.
Trump Reaffirms Commitment to Diplomacy
Trump said he hoped to avoid military action. He stressed the need for a peaceful solution to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
“We remain committed to a Diplomatic Resolution to the Iran Nuclear Issue! My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran,” he posted on Truth Social.
“They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon,” he added.
The Israeli airstrikes came amid growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the operation in a televised statement.
He said the strikes were aimed at neutralising threats to Israel’s survival. “This operation will take as long as is needed to complete the task of fending off the threat of annihilation against us,” Netanyahu said.
Iranian state media reported loud explosions in Tehran early on Friday. State broadcaster IRIB said the source of the blasts had not been confirmed. But speculation grew that the Israeli airstrikes may have targeted military or nuclear facilities.
Also Read: India Issues Safety Alert For Nationals In Israel As Rising Tensions With Iran
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
