Over the past 48 hours, Israel has officially requested that the Trump Administration join its ongoing military campaign against Iran, according to a report from Axios, which cited two unnamed Israeli officials.
In recent days, Israel has carried out several targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear and military installations, resulting in the deaths of numerous high-ranking Iranian Army and Revolutionary Guard officers. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have also reportedly killed several Iranian nuclear scientists and have now begun hitting oil infrastructure, including fields and refineries.
In retaliation, Iran has launched multiple ballistic missile attacks targeting Israeli territory, the latest occurring Saturday night. While Israel’s Iron Dome defense systems have intercepted the majority of incoming missiles and drones from Iran and its affiliated groups, some have penetrated the defense shield, leading to rising casualties.
Axios reports that Israel currently lacks the specialized equipment—such as bunker buster bombs and long-range bomber aircraft—needed to destroy the deeply buried Fordow uranium enrichment facility, which is located inside a mountain. Israel is now seeking U.S. support to deploy the necessary military assets, which are reportedly within operational range.
At present, the Trump Administration has kept a measured distance from Israel’s offensive actions. However, U.S. military forces have been engaged in intercepting missile and drone threats aimed at Israel.
“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. Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Thursday after Israel launched its initial strikes. “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.”
Engaging in a direct military assault on Iran would likely pull the United States into the broader conflict—something President Trump has repeatedly said he would avoid. Such an escalation would also expose U.S. military installations and diplomatic missions throughout the Middle East to Iranian counterattacks using missiles, rockets, or drones.
One unnamed Israeli official alleged that President Trump assured Prime Minister Netanyahu that the U.S. would consider striking Iran if deemed necessary. However, a White House official disputed that claim on Friday.
A second administration source confirmed to Axios that Israel had indeed requested offensive assistance, but emphasized that a direct U.S. strike is not currently under consideration. A senior White House official told Axios Saturday that “whatever happens today cannot be prevented,” in reference to Israel’s attacks.
“But we have the ability to negotiate a successful peaceful resolution to this conflict if Iran is willing. The fastest way for Iran to accomplish peace is to give up its nuclear weapons program,” the senior official added.
Israel is expected to persist in its efforts to secure American military backing. On Friday, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter stated in an interview with Fox News that a strike on the Fordow facility is essential to achieving Israel’s strategic goals. “The entire operation… really has to be completed with the elimination of Fordow,” he said.
“An Israeli source said the U.S. is considering the request and stressed Israel hopes Trump agrees,” Axios reported.
