U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strikes on Iran, Issues Stern Warning to Tehran

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that Israel acted independently in launching a series of airstrikes against Iran, stressing that the United States played no role in the operation.

The strikes, which targeted critical Iranian nuclear sites including the Natanz facility, reportedly inflicted significant casualties on Iranian military and scientific personnel.

“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran,” Rubio said in an official statement. “We are not involved in these strikes, and our top priority remains the protection of American forces in the region.”

In a swift and fierce response, Iran condemned the strikes as a “declaration of war” and vowed retaliation.

Rubio responded with a strong caution to Tehran, urging restraint and warning unequivocally: “Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel”.

The timing of the attacks adds to an already fragile geopolitical landscape, complicating delicate efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran.

While President Trump had previously expressed openness to resuming negotiations aimed at curbing Iran’s uranium enrichment program, this military escalation now threatens to derail those diplomatic efforts.

Rubio underscored that the U.S. has taken all necessary measures to protect its forces and continues close coordination with regional allies.

As tensions escalate, Washington remains determined to prevent a wider conflict, while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding American personnel and interests across the Middle East.