The US response to Israel’s strike on Iran came quickly after Israel launched Operation Rising Lion against Iranian nuclear and military targets. US officials firmly denied any involvement and warned Iran not to retaliate against American forces.
Although Israel informed the US before the attack, Washington made clear it had no part in the operation. The US is now concentrating on safeguarding its soldiers and preventing more confrontation as concerns of regional escalation increase.
US response to Israel’s strike on Iran
The US has issued a firm and cautious response to Israel’s strike on Iran, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio quickly distancing the Trump administration from Israel’s aggressive military campaign. The Israeli airstrikes, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, targeted nuclear and military facilities deep inside Iran and raised concerns of full-scale conflict erupting across the Middle East.
Rubio stressed that Israel acted unilaterally and reiterated that America’s top priority is the safety of its personnel stationed in the region. “We are not involved in strikes against Iran,” Rubio stated, firmly warning Tehran against retaliating against any US interest.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media blamed Washington for complicity in the strikes and reported civilian casualties, including children. Israel declared a state of emergency and vowed to continue operations “for as many days as it takes,” while observers expressed worry about potential Iranian counterattacks, especially ones targeting US military bases or embassies.
Prime Minister Netanyahu said that the strikes served as a necessity for Israel’s existence because of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. Although Israel notified Washington before the operation, it clarified this was a decision of national self-defence.
US braces for fallout
Amid rising regional tensions, the US has responded to Israel’s strike on Iran by bolstering security measures. The State Department has partially evacuated its embassy staff in Iraq and has restricted the movements of personnel in Israel.
Although not directly involved, the US is preparing for any indirect blowback. Rubio confirmed that President Trump maintains constant contact with regional partners and has taken all necessary precautions to protect American lives.
President Trump, who has long pushed for a diplomatic solution with Iran, voiced frustration over stalled negotiations. Hours before the strikes, he warned that an Israeli military move could jeopardise ongoing talks. Yet he also acknowledged the rising risk, stating something “could well happen.”
The US shows its commitment to maintaining diplomacy through Trump’s envoy, who still plans to meet with Iranian officials despite the possibility that military tensions could hinder diplomatic efforts.