US gave regional allies like Qatar heads up on Israel’s planned attack on Iran, say sources
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Rescuers working at the site of a damaged building, in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, on June 13.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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WASHINGTON – The US State Department informed a number of regional allies in the Middle East of Israel's looming strike on Iran hours before the attack took place, three sources familiar with the matter said on June 13.
In a diplomatic note sent out on the afternoon of June 12, the US State Department confirmed that the Israeli attack
Qatar was among the countries which received the heads up.
Washington was not involved in Israel’s operation and was not providing any support, the note said, adding that US President Donald Trump has been very clear on his desire for peace in the region but at the same time has been firm that Tehran cannot be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
Israel launched a barrage of strikes across Iran on June 13, saying it had attacked nuclear facilities and missile factories, and killed military commanders in what could be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.
The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. REUTERS
A building damaged by Israeli air strikes in Tehran on June 13.
PHOTO: REUTERS
