America’s top diplomat expresses hope for regime change in Iran as the US military confirms six service members killed.
Published On 2 Mar 2026
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that an anticipated Israeli strike against Iran influenced the timing of Washington’s offensive on the government in Tehran.
America’s chief diplomat informed journalists on Monday that the US was aware of Israel’s intention to attack Iran, and that Tehran would retaliate against American interests in the region, prompting US forces to launch a preemptive strike.
Suggested Articles
list of 3 itemsend of list
“We were aware of an impending Israeli operation. We understood this would trigger assaults on American troops, and that failing to engage them proactively before their attacks would result in increased casualties for us,” Rubio stated.
The American secretary of state’s remarks were made just minutes before the US military announced that its total fatalities in the conflict had reached six, following the retrieval of two more casualties from a regional facility hit by Iran.
In response to the combined US-Israeli assaults that resulted in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, numerous senior officials, and hundreds of civilians, Tehran launched drones and missiles across the area, targeting American installations and resources in the Gulf.
Rubio’s statement underscores Israel’s part in initiating the conflict, a goal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had pursued for an extended period.
On Sunday, Netanyahu declared that the offensive against Iran was proceeding with the support of his “ally,” US President Donald Trump.
“This alliance of powers enables us to achieve what I have desired for four decades,” the Israeli premier stated in a video broadcast.
Separately, Rubio informed reporters on Monday that an operation against Iran was necessary due to Tehran’s accumulation of missiles and drones, which it would have utilized to safeguard its nuclear program and develop an atomic weapon.
The conflict was initiated by Israel and the US within 48 hours of discussions between American and Iranian delegates regarding Tehran’s nuclear development.
Rubio articulated that the primary objective of the war was to dismantle Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, yet he emphasized that the US would favorably view the termination of the existing governance in Tehran.
“We would not be saddened, and we wish the Iranian populace could depose this administration and forge a new trajectory for their nation. We would greatly appreciate that possibility,” he remarked.