Context:

The United States declared it had no involvement in Israel's unilateral strikes on Iran, which Israel deemed necessary for self-defense. Despite President Trump's efforts to negotiate a nuclear deal with Iran, he acknowledged that Israel might preemptively attack. The U.S. has taken precautionary measures, including withdrawing diplomats from Iraq and allowing military families to leave the Middle East, anticipating potential Iranian retaliation. Iran's defense minister threatened to target U.S. bases in the region if talks failed, raising concerns about the impact of Israel's actions on ongoing negotiations. Trump's administration remains committed to diplomacy, with his envoy scheduled to meet Iran's foreign minister for continued talks.

Dive Deeper:

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the U.S. was not involved in Israel's strikes on Iran, emphasizing the priority of protecting American forces amid Israel's assertion of self-defense. The extent of information shared by Israel with the U.S. prior to the attack remains unclear.

• President Trump, while pushing for nuclear negotiations with Iran, acknowledged the possibility of an Israeli preemptive strike, which occurred amid a White House event. His administration's statements suggest concern over potential Iranian retaliation against American interests in the region.

• In response to the escalating tensions, the U.S. withdrew diplomats from neighboring Iraq and permitted the voluntary departure of military family members from the Middle East, highlighting the strategic positioning of American military assets across the region.

• Iran's defense minister threatened to target U.S. bases if nuclear discussions fail and conflict with the U.S. arises, indicating a significant risk to American military presence in proximity to Iran.

• The implications of Israel's military actions on U.S.-Iran negotiations and Trump's rapport with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remain uncertain, though Trump has urged Israel to refrain from strikes during diplomatic efforts.

• Despite the military developments, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution, directing his administration to pursue negotiations while emphasizing the prerequisite of Iran abandoning nuclear ambitions.

• Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, is scheduled to meet with Iran's foreign minister in Oman, underscoring ongoing diplomatic efforts despite the heightened military tensions.