US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the administration’s position on the war with Iran, countering criticism over the justification for military action. He stated that President Donald Trump decided to attack Iran because he viewed it as a unique opportunity to achieve mission success. Speaking before a closed-door briefing for lawmakers on Tuesday, Rubio emphasized that the president was determined not to strike first, clarifying his earlier remarks that had drawn strong reactions.

Rubio previously said Trump believed Israel was determined to act and wanted the United States to strike Iran first to prevent potential retaliation against American bases and operations in the region. He reiterated that American troops would not be put at risk and argued that there was no way the Iranian government would acquire nuclear weapons under Trump’s watch.

Rubio’s comments have further fueled ongoing debate over the US administration’s Iran policy and military strategy.