WASHINGTON/TEHRAN, JUNE 13, 2025 — The United States has firmly distanced itself from Israel’s recent airstrikes on Tehran, while issuing a strong warning to Iran against retaliating by targeting American personnel or interests in the region. The clarification came from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio late Thursday, following a series of powerful Israeli airstrikes that rocked the Iranian capital in the early hours of Friday.
“We are not involved in the strikes against Iran,” Rubio said during a press briefing. “Our top priority is the safety of American forces stationed across the region. Let me be absolutely clear — Iran must not interpret these developments as a reason to attack U.S. personnel or assets.”
The Israeli offensive reportedly targeted facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear program and long-range missile development, triggering multiple explosions across Tehran and escalating fears of a broader regional conflict. Rubio confirmed that Israel had informed Washington of its intentions ahead of the operation, describing the airstrikes as a measure Israel deemed necessary for its self-defense.
According to Israeli sources cited by The Times of Israel, the military campaign aims to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities and is expected to span several days. “By the end of this operation, the nuclear threat from Iran will be eliminated,” a senior Israeli defense official stated. “We are in a critical window of strategic opportunity and have reached the point of no return. There is no alternative but to act.”
The strikes came just days before the scheduled sixth round of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran in Oman, raising concerns about the potential collapse of diplomatic efforts. U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking earlier this week, had urged restraint from both nations, warning that military escalation could severely jeopardize any hopes of a peaceful resolution to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the U.S. State Department issued a security advisory urging American citizens in the region to remain vigilant. “Due to elevated tensions in the Middle East, the security situation remains volatile and could deteriorate rapidly,” the department posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We urge U.S. nationals in Israel, Iran, and neighboring areas to stay alert and follow local news for real-time updates.”
While Iran has not yet formally responded to the Israeli strikes, military analysts believe a counter-offensive is likely, further straining the fragile security landscape of the region. The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to preventing escalation and maintaining stability but has also warned that it will act decisively if American forces are drawn into the conflict.
The coming days are expected to be critical, as world leaders closely monitor developments in Tehran and beyond, hoping to avoid a spiraling conflict that could engulf much of the Middle East.
