U.S. will defend Israel if Iran strikes back, Trump warns

Trump’s statement
On June 12, 2025, former President Trump told Fox News that “U.S. Central Command is on high alert for Iranian retaliatory attacks” and that the United States “will defend Israel if Iran retaliates” after Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites.

Awareness and support level
Trump confirmed the U.S. was informed in advance of Israel’s preemptive operation—dubbed Operation Rising Lion—but that American forces did not directly participate. Instead, the U.S. has replenished Israel’s Iron Dome missiles and offered intelligence/logistical backing, while avoiding offensive military involvement

Diplomatic backdrop
Despite now-significant tensions, Trump emphasized his desire to return to negotiations with Iran, urging diplomatic resolution even as he warned that Israel might strike and the U.S. would step in defensively if Iran retaliates .

Regional stakes
The situation escalated rapidly: Israel targeted nuclear sites like Natanz and key military officials, and Iran responded by launching a drone barrage of over 100 UAVs into Israeli airspace. Trump’s warning underscores the U.S.'s commitment to shield Israel, but stops short of engaging in offensive action.