U.S. Denies Involvement in Israel’s Strike on Iran’s Nuclear Sites: Rubio’s Warning and Tehran’s Accusation

U.S. Denies Involvement in Israel’s Strike on Iran’s Nuclear Sites: Rubio’s Warning and Tehran’s Accusation

[Washington | June 13, 2025]
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that the United States was not directly involved in Israel’s bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities. “The U.S. was not involved in this attack, and our top priority is to ensure the safety of American forces in the region,” he said. Rubio warned Iran that any targeting of U.S. interests or personnel would result in “severe consequences.”

However, Iran’s state television has accused the United States of being a “complicit accomplice” in the attack, claiming that children were killed in the strikes.

Israel has named the operation “Operation Rising Lion.” A statement from the Israeli military said that the operation targeted Iran’s nuclear program and military facilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared, “This strike was essential for the survival of Israel.”

Netanyahu further stated, “Iran is advancing toward weaponizing enriched uranium. This operation will continue for as long as necessary.” A state of emergency has been declared in Israel, and preparations are underway in anticipation of retaliatory attacks.

According to Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, Israel had informed the United States prior to the attack. However, the U.S. government is publicly maintaining a stance of “strategic distance.”

Rubio’s Message and Trump’s Position
Secretary Rubio said, “Israel viewed this attack as a necessary act of self-defense and had informed us beforehand. President Trump is currently placing the highest priority on protecting our forces.”

In response to the strike on Iran, the U.S. has already withdrawn some diplomatic personnel from Iraq. Except for Tel Aviv, restrictions have been imposed on the movement of U.S. personnel across other parts of Israel.

Just before the strike, President Trump attended a congressional picnic at the White House and gave no public indication of the attack to reporters. However, hours earlier, he had stated, “I don’t want Israel to strike as long as there’s a chance for a diplomatic agreement.” Later on social media, he clarified that the U.S. remains “committed to a diplomatic solution.”

Diplomatic Efforts and Future Actions
Despite continuing efforts to reach a deal with Iran, President Trump acknowledged, “Iran is not willing to offer us what we need.” His special envoy for Middle East affairs, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to meet again with Iranian representatives on Sunday.

The White House has also confirmed that President Trump will attend a classified National Security Council meeting on Friday morning to review the situation.