**Israel Asks US to Join Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites**
Israeli officials have asked the Trump administration to join military operations targeting Iran’s nuclear program, including a strike on the fortified Fordow uranium enrichment site. This request comes as Israel continues its assault on Iranian targets and warns that it lacks the capability to destroy Fordow alone.
The underground facility at Fordow is located deep within a mountain and is beyond the reach of Israel’s conventional weapons. However, US forces in the region have the necessary bunker-busting bombs and bomber aircraft to hit the site. This is why Israeli officials believe that the US would be crucial in destroying the facility.
According to Axios, Trump suggested in a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he would consider joining the operation if needed. However, a White House official denied this claim on June 13. An Israeli source told Axios that the US is considering the request and that Israel hopes Trump will agree to it.
**US Officials Not Currently Considering Involvement**
Despite the request from Israel, a second U.S. official confirmed that the administration is not currently considering involvement in the operation. This suggests that while the US is open to discussing the issue with Israel, they are not yet committed to joining the military action.
A senior White House official told Axios on June 14 that “whatever happens today cannot be prevented,” but added that the US has the ability to negotiate a successful peaceful resolution to this conflict if Iran is willing. The fastest way for Iran to accomplish peace, according to the official, is to give up its nuclear weapons program.
**US Officials Stress Need to Avoid Retaliation**
U.S. officials have so far maintained that Iranian retaliation must not target American forces, arguing that the current Israeli operation does not justify attacks on U.S. interests. This suggests that while the US may ultimately decide to join Israel in the military action, they are taking a cautious approach and do not want to escalate the situation further.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
