Israel's Unilateral Strike on Iran: U.S. Distances Itself, Prioritizes Protection of American Forces
Washington, D.C., June 13 — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that Israel acted unilaterally in launching strikes against Iran and reaffirmed that the United States was not involved in the military operation. He emphasized that America’s top priority is now to protect its forces in the region, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said in an official statement. “Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense. President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”
Rubio’s remarks came as reports emerged of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducting targeted airstrikes on Iranian military infrastructure. According to The Times of Israel, the IDF believes it successfully eliminated key figures in Iran’s defense establishment, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s top military commander, and senior nuclear scientists. Though confirmation is still pending, Israeli defense officials have noted the “increasing likelihood” of their deaths.
Amid the volatile military developments, President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States remains committed to a peaceful resolution of the Iran nuclear issue. In a post on Truth Social, the President wrote:
“We remain committed to a Diplomatic Resolution to the Iran Nuclear Issue! My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
Despite the airstrikes, Trump’s message signals a clear intent to avoid direct military engagement and instead pursue diplomatic negotiations — albeit under the strict condition that Iran abandon its nuclear ambitions.
The U.S. Department of State issued an advisory for American citizens in Israel and across the broader Middle East to remain alert. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the department warned:
“Due to high tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly. We remind U.S. citizens in Israel and the broader region of the continued need for caution and encourage them to monitor the news for breaking developments.”
With the security situation rapidly evolving, the State Department emphasized the need for vigilance, especially for American citizens abroad.
The Israeli military, for its part, indicated that its campaign against Iran may last several days, with the goal of permanently disabling Iran’s nuclear and long-range missile programs. The IDF is reportedly preparing for retaliation from Tehran and has entered a heightened state of readiness.
According to Israeli defense sources:
“At the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat from Iran.”
They further added:
“We are in the window of strategic opportunities. We have reached the point of no return, and there is no choice but to act now.”
This declaration marks a significant escalation in Israel’s stance toward Iran’s nuclear ambitions and signals a broader strategic objective beyond mere deterrence.
As Israel pushes forward with its military objectives in what it calls an act of self-defense, the United States is making clear its desire to remain outside the immediate conflict while shielding its personnel and regional assets. Secretary Rubio’s statement aims to distance the Biden-Trump administration from direct involvement, even as Washington maintains communication with key allies and adversaries alike. The coming days will likely test the fragile balance between military strategy and diplomatic restraint in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
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