Trump: US ready to defend Israel if Iran retaliates

US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States stands ready to defend Israel in the event of Iranian retaliation following Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

Speaking to Fox News Channel, Trump confirmed he was aware of Israel’s planned strikes on Iran prior to their execution but emphasised that the United States was not involved, Caliber.Az reports. 

The US president is reportedly watching for any retaliation, and US Central Command (CENTCOM) is on high alert. He noted that the US is ready to defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates.

“Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back,” Trump said.

Trump said he is closely monitoring the situation and has spoken multiple times with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent days.

The White House has also reached out to at least one key Middle Eastern ally to inform them of the impending strikes, according to Trump.

In recent weeks, the US has replenished Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system. US officials have confirmed that a number of top Iranian leaders are dead after Israel’s airstrikes. Trump reiterated his hope that Iran will choose diplomacy.

Israel has launched a series of strikes on strategic targets within Iran, targeting components of the country's nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile facilities, and senior military commanders, according to a statement from Tel Avivn early on June 13.

By Sabina Mammadli