Washington, DC [US], June 13 (ANI): US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on Friday that Israel carried out a unilateral strike against Iran and emphasized that the United States was not involved in the military operation. He added that the Biden administration’s immediate focus is the protection of American personnel and interests in the region.
In an official statement, Rubio said, “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. 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 US interests or personnel.”
Earlier on Friday, US President Donald Trump addressed the escalating tensions, reiterating his administration’s commitment to a peaceful resolution regarding Iran’s nuclear program. In a post on Truth Social, he 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!”
Amid rising regional tensions, the US Department of State issued an advisory for its citizens, urging vigilance. In a post on X, the department stated, “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.”
Meanwhile, Israel’s military operation appears to have targeted key figures and facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. According to The Times of Israel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) believe their initial strikes may have killed Iran’s military chief Mohammad Bagheri and several senior nuclear scientists. A defense official cited by the publication said the likelihood of their deaths is “increasing.”
The IDF expects its campaign against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and long-range missile systems to continue for several days. “At the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat from Iran,” Israeli military officials reportedly stated. They also described the moment as a “window of strategic opportunities,” asserting, “We have reached the point of no return, and there is no choice but to act now.”
As the situation unfolds, the region remains on high alert with both US and Israeli forces bracing for potential retaliation from Iran. (ANI)
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