WASHINGTON — The U.S. military assisted in intercepting Iranian missiles targeting Israel, American officials confirmed to USA TODAY on June 13. The interception followed a rapid escalation in hostilities after Israel conducted a targeted strike on Iranian nuclear facilities.
It remains unclear which specific U.S. military assets were involved in the missile defense operation. Israel reported that fewer than 100 rockets were launched in total.
Tensions Boil Over Following Israeli Strike
Iran’s missile retaliation came in three waves, less than 24 hours after Israel bombed its nuclear sites and killed several high-ranking generals and nuclear scientists. The Israeli strike has sparked global concern about the region’s stability and the impact on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
While the United States acknowledged it was aware of Israel’s intentions, officials emphasized that the U.S. had no role in executing the strike.
Trump Pushes for Diplomacy Despite Escalation
President Donald Trump, whose administration had been negotiating a deal with Iran to limit its nuclear enrichment program, continued pressing for diplomacy even amid the crisis.
“There has already been great death and destruction, but there is still time to make this slaughter … come to an end,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, urging Iran to return to the negotiating table. A sixth round of talks had been planned in Oman before the Israeli strike derailed progress.
Throughout June 13, Trump held a series of private meetings, including with his National Security Council, and spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Mixed Messages Between Allies
While Netanyahu publicly thanked Trump for his leadership, the U.S. president had earlier warned Israel not to carry out the strike, citing potential fallout for peace talks. “As long as I think there is an agreement, I don’t want them going in … that could blow it,” Trump said at a White House event.
U.S. Reiterates Warning to Iran
Acting National Security Adviser Marco Rubio, also serving as Secretary of State, issued a strong warning to Iran on June 12:
“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.”
As of last April, about 40,000 U.S. troops were stationed across the Middle East, and hundreds of thousands of American citizens currently reside in Israel, heightening concerns over further escalation.