U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strike on Iran
Tensions soared across the Middle East as the United States moved swiftly to distance itself from Israel’s surprise military strike on Iran, even as Iran’s Supreme Leader issued a fiery response vowing retribution and declaring that Israel has “prepared for itself a bitter and painful fate.”
Following overnight Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian territory — including what Tehran claims were residential centers — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a statement seeking to clarify Washington’s stance.
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said.
“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 our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel.”
While the U.S. confirmed Israel had given prior notice of the attack, Rubio’s remarks emphasized that America played no role in the strike and is solely focused on shielding its military personnel stationed across the region.
In a sharp and defiant response, Iran’s Supreme Leader issued a message to the nation on Friday morning, condemning the attack and warning of imminent retaliation.
Message from the Leader of the Islamic Revolution to the Great Iranian People Following the Zionist Entity’s Crime This Morning:
“In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
The Great Iranian Nation!
The Zionist regime committed a vile and bloody crime in our beloved country at dawn today, revealing its evil more than ever before by targeting residential centers. The regime must expect severe punishment.
The strong hand of the Islamic Republic’s armed forces will not abandon it, God willing.
A number of leaders and scholars were martyred in the enemy’s attacks, and their successors and colleagues will immediately assume their duties, God willing.
With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter and painful fate, and it will certainly befall it.”
The Iranian statement, circulated by channels affiliated with Al Muqawamah Al Islamiyah, signals a likely escalation as Iran mourns the loss of senior figures reportedly killed in the Israeli assault.
While no official casualty figures have been released, Iranian media confirmed multiple deaths, including among senior military and religious figures.
The international community has begun calling for restraint, as fears of broader regional conflict mount. Meanwhile, analysts note that Iran’s reference to “severe punishment” and martyrdom of leaders indicates preparations for potential retaliatory strikes, likely via allied proxy groups across Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.
