The United States’ response to Israel’s recent military strikes on Iran has been marked by growing contradictions and uncertainties. While official government channels have sought to distance themselves from the operation earlier, President Donald Trump delivered a forceful warning to Tehran, underscoring a back-and-forth dynamic in Washington’s messaging. Adding to the uncertainty, several supportive posts from key Republican lawmakers were deleted shortly after publication, further complicating the clarity of the US stance.
Early on Friday, the White House posted a statement by Marco Rubio via its official X account declaring, “This operation was carried out unilaterally by Israel. The United States was not involved”.
Statement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio
“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. Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its… pic.twitter.com/5FFesh3dkF
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 13, 2025
However, President Donald Trump later issued a statement via Truth Social, contradicting the earlier White House stance. He said that he had repeatedly urged Iran to make a deal but claimed the Iranian leadership failed to act, despite warnings of severe consequences. Trump emphasised that the United States possesses the world’s most advanced military technology, much of which is available to Israel. He stated that Iranian hardliners underestimated the impending response and have now suffered heavy losses, with further attacks already planned. Stressing the urgency of the situation, Trump warned that Iran risks total devastation unless it agrees to negotiations. He concluded by urging Iranian leaders to act swiftly to prevent further death and destruction.
The division in US messaging was also apparent on Capitol Hill. Republican lawmakers voiced strong support for Israel’s right to self-defence. House Speaker Mike Johnson said on X, “Israel has every right to defend itself against existential threats”. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, posted, “We stand with Israel tonight and pray for the safety of its people and the success of this unilateral, defensive action. Iran would be foolish to attack the United States”. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) tweeted simply, “Game on. Pray for Israel.”
By contrast, Democratic Senator Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island) called for caution in a public statement: “This kind of reckless escalation serves no one. We need to urgently restore diplomatic efforts to prevent further loss of life.”
All the cited posts from Republican lawmakers on X were deleted shortly after publication, limiting access to the original messages.
The unfolding events reveal a complex and unsettled US position on the Israeli strikes against Iran, marked by conflicting messages and rapid shifts. As tensions escalate in the region, clarity in Washington’s stance remains crucial to shaping the next phase of this volatile conflict. Further updates will follow as the situation develops.
