Is the US Involved? The Iran-Israel Proxy War Explained

How did the US get involved in the Israel - Iran war ? USA TODAY answers your FAQs After President Donald Trump authorized a military strike at three of Iran 's nuclear sites, USA TODAY is answering. The United States bombed three nuclear sites in Iran , bringing the US military directly into Israel’s war with Iran, a move that could kick off a more dangerous phase in the war. The US role in the Israel - Iran conflict has become increasingly pronounced. While Washington has publicly backed Israel ’s right to defend itself, officials have also urged restraint, wary of being drawn into a broader regional war . Air and naval assets have reportedly been repositioned closer to the Persian Gulf, signaling readiness. We don't have all the details of the current fighting, but the U.S . Military is clearly actively supporting Israel , just as it did last year when Israel and Iran had some missile exchanges. Why Israel bombed Iran , what led to the latest escalation, and how the US is balancing alliance, deterrence, and diplomacy — full timeline inside. It’s a proxy war turning into something bigger—and the U.S. Is already more involved than it’s letting on. The immediate trigger was Israel’s unprecedented strike inside Iran’s borders —a move that marked a serious break from years of covert operations and deniable sabotage. After prevaricating about whether the United States would enter Israel ’s war on Iran , President Donald Trump finally made a decision. Early Sunday, US warplanes and submarines struck three of. Early Sunday, US warplanes struck three of Iran ’s. Israel has leveled much of Gaza to destroy Hamas, which is backed by Iran . It bombed Lebanon and Yemen to counter Hezbollah and the Houthi militia, both of which are also backed by Iran . Iran has issued a stark warning that if the US joins forces with Israel , it will "result in irreparable damage for them" - amid fears of an "all-out war .".