Israel estimates Iran has enough enriched material for several nuclear bombs
The IDF said the operation, titled "Rising Lion," comes after intelligence identified that Iran has "significantly advanced towards obtaining a nuclear weapon," alleging this capability would allow them to act against Israel.
Israel estimates Iran now has enough enriched material for several nuclear bombs, the IDF and an Israeli official familiar with the operation told ABC News.
US 'not involved in strikes against Iran,' Rubio says
After Israel launched what it called a "preemptive strike" against Iran, Sec. of State Marco Rubio released a statement saying, "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."
Rubio said the U.S. was advised by Israel that "they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense."
"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,” Rubio's statement continued.
Israel said it has launched a series of strikes against Iran
Israel said it has launched a series of strikes against Iran that included dozens of military targets, including the country's nuclear program, according to the Israel Defense Forces.
Defense Minister Israel Katz described the strikes as "preemptive" and declared a state of emergency.
"Following the State of Israel's preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future," Katz said in a statement.