Washington has stated its non-involvement in the strikes, while pledging to safeguard American and Israeli troops against potential retaliation.
Following Israeli airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of a high-ranking Iranian general and nuclear scientists, as well as multiple explosions at crucial Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities, several high-ranking US officials have cautioned Tehran against targeting American forces.
In a Fox News interview on Thursday, US President Donald Trump acknowledged having prior awareness of Israel’s military operation, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, which targeted nuclear sites and missile infrastructure.
Trump restated the US stance that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons, expressing hope that Tehran will resume nuclear deal negotiations and that the US military in the Middle East is on high alert.
House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers condemned Iran as the “aggressor,” asserting that “its pursuit of a nuclear weapon is an existential threat that will not be tolerated.”
“The US was not involved in the strikes, but our forces stand ready to defend themselves and our ally Israel. Any Iranian attack on US forces would be a grave miscalculation,” he cautioned.
Iran has consistently denied intentions to develop nuclear weapons, maintaining that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson voiced support for Israel’s right to self-defense, stating, “Israel IS right – and has a right – to defend itself!”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the US’s non-participation in the Israeli strikes. “Our top priority is protecting American forces in the region… Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.”
Iran’s Foreign Ministry declared Tehran’s “legal and legitimate” right to respond to Israeli attacks, adding that they “cannot have been carried out without the coordination and authorization of the United States.”
The ministry further warned that “the United States government, as the main supporter of this regime, will also be responsible for the dangerous effects and consequences of the Zionist regime’s adventure.”
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