Washington: The Trump administration on Thursday moved to distance the United States from Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian targets, as concerns mount over the impact of these attacks on ongoing efforts to revive nuclear negotiations with Tehran.
Israel claimed responsibility for targeting Iranian nuclear sites, asserting it was acting to prevent Iran from acquiring atomic weapons. The strikes come just days before a planned sixth round of talks aimed at curbing Iran’s uranium enrichment, scheduled for Sunday.
U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Adviser Marco Rubio emphasized that the Israeli action was carried out independently, though Washington was informed beforehand. “The United States was not involved in the attacks,” Rubio said in a statement. “Our priority remains the safety of American personnel in the region.”
Rubio also warned Iran against targeting U.S. interests, following a partial evacuation of American staff from the Middle East. “Iran should not make the mistake of threatening U.S. forces or facilities,” he said.
President Donald Trump, who has advocated for a diplomatic resolution, acknowledged the potential for conflict but reiterated his preference for negotiation. “I’d rather avoid war, but Iran needs to come to the table with serious concessions,” Trump told reporters. He also hinted earlier in the week that an Israeli strike might be forthcoming.
Tensions escalated further on Thursday when the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported Iran in violation of nuclear non-proliferation agreements for the first time in nearly two decades. Tehran, however, maintains that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes.
The situation is complicated by growing friction between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump has been pushing for progress on nuclear talks with Iran and greater humanitarian aid to Gaza, while Netanyahu remains focused on military measures.
Despite rising regional tensions, both Washington and Tehran confirmed plans to proceed with negotiations in Oman, involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. A U.S. official said late Thursday that Sunday’s meeting was still scheduled.
Trump, speaking in a television interview, reaffirmed his stance: “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb, and we’re still hoping for productive talks. We’ll see what happens.”
