Following Israel’s extensive airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities, Prime Minister Netanyahu justifies the attack as vital for Israel’s survival, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denies Washington’s involvement, emphasizing protection of American forces amid rising regional tensions.

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Israel Launches Airstrikes on Iran, Declares State of Emergency Amid Escalating Tensions

Netanyahu Declares Strike on “Heart” of Iran’s Nuclear Program

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israeli forces launched a broad aerial campaign targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, missile factories, and military sites. He identified the uranium enrichment facility in Natanz as a primary target, asserting that Iran has enriched enough uranium for nine nuclear bombs and is rapidly militarizing with plans to produce 20,000 ballistic missiles capable of striking Israel within minutes.

Netanyahu framed the operation as a decisive moment in Israel’s history, warning that failure to act now would endanger the nation’s very existence. “If we do not act now, simply we will not be here,” he said, urging citizens to follow civil defense instructions strictly.

He emphasized that the campaign, named “Operation Rising Lion,” would continue “as long as necessary” to achieve its goals, underscoring the existential threat Israel perceives from Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Prime Minister Netanyahu:
"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." pic.twitter.com/3c8oF1GCYa

— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) June 13, 2025

Rubio Denies U.S. Involvement, Highlights Protection of American Forces

In response, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly denied any American role in the Israeli airstrikes, describing the attack as a unilateral decision by Israel. Rubio stressed that Washington’s foremost priority is safeguarding U.S. military personnel in the region and maintaining close communication with regional partners.

“Israel informed us that it believes this action is necessary for its own defense,” Rubio stated, adding that the Trump administration has taken all necessary measures to protect American forces. He warned Iran explicitly not to attack U.S. interests or personnel, reflecting a cautious U.S. stance amid escalating tensions.

While Netanyahu’s rhetoric justifies aggressive military action as essential for Israel’s survival, Rubio’s statements seek to distance the United States from direct involvement, emphasizing defensive priorities.

This dual messaging reflects the complex U.S.-Israel relationship, where Washington supports Israel’s security concerns but publicly avoids direct responsibility for provocative military actions.

The airstrikes come just days before a scheduled round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States in Oman, threatening to derail diplomatic efforts. Iran has vowed retaliation, and the Israeli Defense Forces remain on high alert, anticipating missile and drone attacks. The U.S. has evacuated non-essential diplomatic staff from Iraq and other regional posts, signaling the gravity of the situation.

These developments illustrate imperialist dynamics that destabilize the Middle East. Israel’s preemptive strikes, backed implicitly by U.S. military and political support, exacerbate conflict and undermine the sovereignty of nations. U.S. denials of involvement mask a deeper complicity in perpetuating regional violence under the guise of defense and diplomacy.

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