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The State Department has instructed American embassies worldwide to clarify that the United States is not involved in Israel's recent military actions against Iran, as fighting between the two nations intensifies.
Embassies and consular posts were directed to inform host governments "at their discretion" that the U.S. "is not involved in Israel's unilateral action against targets in Iran and did not provide tanker support," CBS News reported Sunday, citing a diplomatic cable.
The internal communication, distributed through an All Diplomatic and Consular Posts (ALDAC) cable, also reaffirmed Washington's position that the U.S. "remains committed to a diplomatic resolution to the Iran nuclear issue."
The directive comes after Israeli strikes Friday targeted Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, killing military commanders and scientists. Iran responded with ballistic missiles that caused Israeli casualties and property damage, further escalating the conflict.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of complicity in the attacks, claiming the U.S. "is a partner in these attacks and must take responsibility."
The State Department cable warned that "no government, proxy or independent actor should target American citizens, bases, or infrastructure," while maintaining that "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon."
President Donald Trump addressed the situation Sunday before departing for the G7 summit in Canada, saying, "I think it's time for a deal, and we'll see what happens."
However, Trump also issued a stark warning on social media: "If US interests are attacked by Iran, the full strength and might of the US Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before," while reaffirming U.S. support for Israel's defense.
The U.S. has maintained its defensive posture in the region, with the cable noting that American military forces are operating "to protect U.S. personnel, forces, and infrastructure in the region and to minimize casualties, particularly amid the persistent threat posed by Iranian ballistic missiles."
U.S. embassies in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem remain closed, with American personnel continuing to shelter in place under Israeli civil defense guidance.
Nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran that were scheduled for Sunday in Oman have been cancelled. According to sources, Iran refused to engage "while under attack."
The escalating conflict has put Washington in a delicate position as it seeks to balance its support for Israel with efforts to prevent a broader regional war while maintaining diplomatic channels with Iran.
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