Marco Rubio denied this Friday any implication of the United States in the airstrike launched by Israel against Iran, which has drastically increased tensions in the Middle East.
The U.S. Secretary of State clarified that Washington did not participate in the operation and that its priority is to protect the military personnel deployed in the region.
Israel took unilateral measures against Iran. "We are not involved in attacks against Iran, and our top priority is to protect U.S. forces in the region," Rubio stated in a statement, adding that Tel Aviv believes this offensive is necessary for its self-defense.
Rubio also emphasized that the administration of President Donald Trump is maintaining close contact with its regional allies and has taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety of its troops.
"Let’s be clear: Iran should not attack U.S. interests or personnel," said the Secretary of State.
Rubio's statements came just hours after Trump, in a message released on Thursday, stated that his administration remains committed to a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear conflict.
“My administration has been instructed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a great country, but first, they must completely abandon their nuclear ambitions,” the leader wrote on Truth Social.
Chronology of the most significant events of Israel's attack on Iran
In the early hours of Friday, the Israeli Air Force bombed more than a hundred military and nuclear targets within Iranian territory. Among the victims are at least six scientists, including Fereydoon Abbasi, former director of the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization, and the commander-in-chief of the Revolutionary Guard, Hossein Salamí.
The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, described the offensive as "successful" and warned that it will continue "for as long as necessary." In response, the supreme leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, pledged a "severe" retaliation.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that the Natanz nuclear plant was hit by the bombings, although it noted that no increases in radiation have been detected. The facilities in Fordow, Isfahan, and Bushehr remain unharmed.
The offensive provoked a strong international reaction. Russia, China, Norway, Australia, Japan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia expressed their concern over the escalation of the conflict. Several countries condemned the Israeli attack, while others, such as Jordan, activated defensive measures in response to a possible Iranian retaliation.
In the economic sphere, markets reacted with alarm. The price of oil surged by more than 13% in the early hours of Friday, reflecting fears of a global energy crisis.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed that there was no U.S. involvement in the attack, and the White House called a meeting of the National Security Council to assess the progression of the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions about Israel's Attack on Iran and the United States' Stance
Did the United States participate in Israel's attack on Iran?
The United States did not participate in Israel's attack on Iran. Marco Rubio, Secretary of State, stated that Washington was not involved in military operations and that the priority of the U.S. government is to protect its forces in the region.
What was the international reaction to Israel's attack on Iran?
The international reaction was one of great concern. Several countries, including Russia, China, Norway, Australia, Japan, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, expressed their worries about the escalation of the conflict. Some condemned the Israeli attack, while others, such as Jordan, took defensive measures in anticipation of a possible Iranian response.
How has Israel's attack on Iran affected international markets?
The attack had a significant impact on international markets, particularly in the energy sector. The price of oil surged by more than 13% in the first hours following the attack, reflecting fears of a global energy crisis. This is due to concerns about stability in the Middle East, a key region for oil supply.
What measures is the United States taking to protect its troops in the Middle East?
The United States has taken several measures to ensure the safety of its troops in the Middle East. The Trump administration maintains close contact with its regional allies and has implemented strategies to protect its forces deployed in the region. The priority is to avoid any direct involvement in the conflict while ensuring the protection of its military personnel.
Filed under: