• The U.S. State Department has directed embassies to clarify U.S. non-involvement in Israeli strikes on Iran.
• Escalating conflict has resulted in casualties on both Israeli and Iranian sides.
• Iran accuses the U.S. of complicity in Israeli military actions, urging Washington to take responsibility.

The U.S. State Department has sent a directive to American embassies to clarify that the United States "is not involved in Israel's unilateral action against targets in Iran and did not provide tanker support," amidst increasing hostilities between Israel and Iran. This communication, known as an ALDAC (All Diplomatic and Consular Posts) cable, emphasizes the U.S. commitment to a diplomatic resolution regarding the Iran nuclear issue, according to CBS News, aa, and trtglobal.

As hostilities intensify, the cable warns that "no government, proxy or independent actor should target American citizens, bases, or infrastructure," and underscores that "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon." Following a series of Israeli strikes on Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities that resulted in significant casualties, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused the U.S. of complicity, asserting that the U.S. "is a partner in these attacks and must take responsibility," according to CBS News, aa, and trtglobal.

In response to the escalating threat posed by Iranian ballistic missiles, the U.S. maintains a defensive posture, focusing on protecting American personnel and infrastructure in the region. President Donald Trump, speaking before a G7 summit, claimed that it is "time for a deal" but simultaneously warned that any attacks on U.S. interests would invoke a severe military response, stating, "the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before," according to CBS News, aa, and trtglobal.

Amidst these tensions, U.S. embassies in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have remained closed, and American diplomats are sheltering in place. Notably, nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran scheduled in Oman were abruptly cancelled, with Iran refusing to negotiate "while under attack," according to CBS News, aa, and trtglobal.