U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States was not involved in Israel's recent strikes on Iran, which Israel deemed necessary for self-defense. The situation raises concerns about possible Iranian retaliation affecting American forces in the region.
U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strikes as Iran Tensions Escalate
U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strikes as Iran Tensions Escalate
The Trump administration asserts no involvement in Israel's unilateral strikes on Iran amid rising tensions and potential diplomatic negotiations.
By Qasim Nauman
June 12, 2025, 10:42 p.m. ET
In a significant development amidst rising tensions in the Middle East, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States had no role in the recent Israeli strikes against Iran. These military actions, carried out under the premise of self-defense, have heightened concerns regarding the ongoing nuclear negotiations between the Trump administration and Tehran.
While hosting an annual White House picnic on Thursday, President Trump received reports of the strikes from Tehran. Despite advocating for a diplomatic resolution regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, Trump acknowledged the possibility that Israel might initiate military action against Iran ahead of any negotiations.
Rubio emphasized in a statement that the U.S. remains focused on safeguarding American forces stationed in the region, clarifying, “We are not involved in strikes against Iran. Israel communicated their belief that this action was critical for their self-defense.” The extent of the information shared between Israel and the U.S. regarding the strike remains unclear.
The Trump administration’s comments suggest apprehension over potential Iranian retaliation, which may involve targeting not only Israeli interests but also American bases across the Middle East. On Wednesday, the U.S. took precautionary measures by withdrawing diplomats from Iraq, which shares a border with Iran, and permitting the voluntary departure of military personnel's family members from the region.
Iran's defense minister previously warned that if nuclear negotiations fail and conflict arises, the Iranian military would aim at all American bases in the vicinity. The ramifications of Israel's strikes on diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Iran remain uncertain, as observers note that President Trump has encouraged Israel to refrain from military actions during ongoing talks.
As negotiations continue, Trump's engagement with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was noted earlier in the week, although details from their discussions were not disclosed. Meanwhile, Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, is set to meet with Iran's foreign minister in Oman for the next round of discussions.
At this critical juncture, President Trump reiterated his commitment to a diplomatic solution via a social media post, stating, “My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hope of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon.”
Qasim Nauman is a Times editor in Seoul, covering breaking news from around the world.
