Trump Asserts He Was Briefed Ahead of Israel’s Strikes on Iran
Former US President Donald Trump revealed that he had advance knowledge of Israel's recent military action targeting Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. Emphasizing that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons, Trump underscored the urgency of addressing the issue, while also expressing hope for a diplomatic solution.
Operation Rising Lion: Israel’s Preemptive Offensive
Israel launched a significant military campaign titled Operation Rising Lion, striking key uranium enrichment and other strategic sites across Iran. The strikes, which occurred late Thursday, were described by Israeli officials as a preemptive move aimed at neutralizing imminent threats to Israel's security.
Explosions registered on Iranian state media were followed by air-raid sirens sounding across Israel, signaling heightened preparedness against possible retaliatory attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister announced the operation with a message framing it as a critical step to "roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival." The offensive escalated tensions in a region already fraught with uncertainty and conflict.
US Responds: No Direct Involvement, Focus on Protection
Despite Trump’s claim of prior awareness, current US officials clarified the United States’ stance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Washington was not involved in the strikes and reaffirmed that the primary US focus remained safeguarding American personnel and interests in the region.
Rubio issued a stern warning to Iran against targeting US assets or forces, reflecting a careful balance between support for Israel and prevention of further regional escalation.
Trump’s Call for Diplomacy Amid Rising Tensions
Interestingly, just hours before the operation unfolded, Trump advocated for renewed diplomatic engagement with Iran. Via a late-night post on his social media platform, he reiterated his administration’s commitment to negotiating a peaceful resolution to the nuclear issue.
He stated: “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.”
Looking Ahead
The unfolding events highlight the fragile balance in Middle East geopolitics, with military action and diplomacy intertwined in a high-stakes game. The international community remains watchful as the situation continues to develop, with significant implications for regional stability and global security.
