US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the United States was not involved in Israel’s unilateral strikes on Iran, according to The New York Times.
Israeli Strikes were Necessary
Rubio said Israel started the attacks and acted unilaterally based on its belief that the operation was necessary for self-defense.
“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,” Rubio said.
Significant Warning
He also warned Iran late Thursday not to respond to Israeli strikes by targeting American bases in the region.
Importantly, the US military maintains a large fleet of warplanes, naval vessels as well as thousands of troops stationed at its bases in the region, including in Qatar and Bahrain.
“Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,” Rubio added.
US Precautionary Measures
On Wednesday, the United States withdrew diplomats from Iraq and authorized the voluntary departure of the family members of U.S. military personnel from the Middle East.
“President Trump and the administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners,” he said.
Talks Comes to a Standstill
US and Iranian officials were set to hold a sixth round of talks on Tehran’s escalating uranium enrichment program in Oman on Sunday. However, the talks seemed to be deadlocked.
On Thursday, Trump also raised the possibility of an Israeli strike on Iran stating that it “could very well happen.” At the same time, he stressed his hopes for a peaceful resolution.
“My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran,” he posted on social media around 5 p.m. Eastern time. “They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon.”
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