The accusation comes after Israel launched what it called a preemptive strike on multiple nuclear and military sites inside Iran.
The strikes took place shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump had acknowledged the possibility of such action by Israel. Iranian state media reported that several explosions were heard in Tehran, while the country’s air defence systems were placed on full alert.
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However, as soon as explosions were heard, U.S. officials denied any involvement in the Israeli strikes. Senator Marco Rubio in a statement made it clear that US had nothing to do with Israel’s actions.
“We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” he said. He further added that the Trump administration had taken steps to protect U.S. personnel and remained in contact with partners in the region.A day after the United States ordered some U.S. personnel to leave the Middle East in response to tensions in the area, Rubio had a stark warning for Iran: “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.” Also Read: Israel strikes Iran’s nuclear sites as hinted by Trump, declares state of ’emergency’
President Trump, while addressing the situation earlier, had said, “An Israeli strike on Iran could very well happen,” but expressed hope for a peaceful resolution.
The airstrikes coincided with stalled nuclear talks in Oman, where U.S., Iranian, and Omani officials had been scheduled to hold a sixth round of discussions aimed at limiting Tehran’s uranium enrichment program. The negotiations have remained deadlocked.
U.S. intelligence had earlier indicated that Israel was preparing for a strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, with officials suggesting that such action could occur within days.
Israel has long maintained that it would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons, with military options remaining on the table for years.
