The U.S. denies any role in the attacks, which Israel stated were a response to the “existential threat” posed by the Iranian regime’s development of nuclear weapons.
President Donald Trump met with senior administration officials on Thursday night as Israel launched an attack against Iran’s nuclear, missile, and air defense sites. Iranian state media has confirmed the deaths of top scientists and military officials, including Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps commander General Hossein Salami. Israel has closed its air space and declared a state of emergency.
President Trump had been urging Israel to be patient as the U.S. worked toward a nuclear agreement with Iran.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio responded to the strikes, saying, “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.”
He continued, “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.”
On Thursday, President Trump had stated before the attack was launched, “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 they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon.”
Before Israel’s strikes on Thursday night, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff had been scheduled to meet with Iranian representatives for a sixth round of nuclear talks on Sunday.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For President Trump and members of his Cabinet to receive God’s wisdom as they assess the situation in Iran after the Israeli strikes.
- For U.S. military and intelligence officials to be discerning as they provide information and feedback on the attacks and their aftermath.
- For the Lord’s protection over U.S. troops deployed in the Middle East.
Sources: Axios, Townhall, Politico, Jerusalem Post
