The United States has denied any involvement in the Israeli airstrikes that struck Iran’s capital, Tehran, early Friday, June 13, 2025, in what Israeli officials have dubbed Operation “Rising Lion”. The strikes targeted Iranian nuclear and military facilities, which Israel described as a preemptive measure against an imminent threat.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that while the U.S. was informed in advance, it did not participate in the attack.
“In the night, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in the strikes, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said.
He added that Israel independently decided to proceed, citing self-defense concerns.
“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense. President Trump and the administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with regional partners.”
Rubio also warned Iran not to attack U.S. bases or personnel.
“Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”
U.S. President Donald J. Trump said his administration is still pushing for peace and negotiations with Iran.
“We remain committed to a diplomatic resolution to the Iran nuclear issue. My entire administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a great country but only if they abandon the pursuit of nuclear weapons,” Trump said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strikes, calling them essential to Israel’s survival.
“Moments ago, Israel launched Operation ‘Rising Lion’, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. “This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat,” Netanyahu declared.
He accused Iran of aggressively advancing toward nuclear weapon capability.
“Iran has produced enough highly enriched uranium for nine atom bombs. In recent months, they’ve taken steps to weaponize this uranium. If not stopped, Iran could build a nuclear weapon in a very short time. This is a clear threat to Israel’s existence, ”Netanyahu warned.
He vowed that Israel would never allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons.
“As Prime Minister, Israel will never allow those who call for our annihilation to develop the means to achieve that goal. “Tonight, Israel backs those plans with action,” Netanyahu revealed.
In retaliation, Iran launched over 100 drones at Israeli targets, according to Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin.
“The interception efforts against the Iranian strikes are continuing,” he said.
He also confirmed the assassination of senior Iranian military leaders in the Israeli airstrikes, including Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces; Hossein Salami, Commander of the Revolutionary Guard; and Gholam Ali Rashid, a top Iranian general.
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, expressed serious concern over the escalating conflict and urged all sides to show restraint.
“The reports of these strikes are deeply concerning. We urge all parties to step back and de-escalate immediately. Escalation serves no one. Stability in the Middle East must remain the priority,” Sir Starmer stressed.
The airstrikes mark the most serious military exchange between Iran and Israel in over four decades, following more than a year of tit-for-tat hostilities. In 2024, Israel bombed the Iranian embassy in Syria, killing key Iranian officials, a move that triggered Iranian drone and missile attacks.
Analysts warn that this latest round of attacks could push the region into a broader and more dangerous conflict, especially if diplomatic efforts fail to curb further retaliation.
