Israel Strikes Iran: Did the U.S. Give the Green Light?
A surprise assault on nuclear and military targets raises global tensions - and serious questions about Washington’s role.
Israel launched a massive military assault on Iran early Friday, striking over 100 targets across the country including nuclear enrichment facilities, missile sites, and residences of top military leaders.
The strikes killed at least 78 people, among them Iran’s military chief, Revolutionary Guard commanders, and nuclear scientists. Iran responded by launching more than 100 drones at Israel and warning of “severe punishment.” (AP)
Netanyahu Frames Attack as Preemptive
Israel framed the operation - dubbed Rising Lion - as a preemptive move to prevent Iran from producing nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the mission “struck at the heart” of Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and vowed further action. (Guardian)
U.S. Officials Downplay Involvement
Officially, the U.S. maintained distance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the Israeli operation “unilateral” and said Washington had not participated. (AP)
But behind the scenes, it’s clear the Trump administration had knowledge of the strike. President Trump confirmed to the Wall Street Journal that Israel attacked the day after a 60-day deadline he gave Iran to reach a nuclear deal expired: “It wasn’t a heads-up. It was, we know what’s going on.” (WSJ)
While Trump has insisted diplomacy remains his preferred path, Friday’s attack - timed just ahead of scheduled U.S.-Iran talks - has upended any pretense of neutral ground. The question now is whether Washington gets pulled further into the escalating conflict.
Inside the Israel-Iran Strike and Trump’s Quiet Green Light
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