Israel launches preemptive strike against Iran, declares state of emergency

Israel has launched what it is calling a "preemptive strike" against Iran and declared a state of emergency, according to Defense Minister Israel Katz.

"Following the State of Israel's preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future," Katz said in a statement.

Air raid sirens sounded in Tel Aviv following the announcement.

The U.S. did not provide any assistance or have any involvement in the Israeli strike, a U.S. official told ABC News.

MORE: US-Iran nuclear talks to resume in Oman on Sunday

Sec. of State Marco Rubio released a statement following the strike, saying, "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."

Rubio said the U.S. was advised by Israel that "they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense."

"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,” Rubio said.

The strikes come as the U.S. has planned nuclear talks with Iranian officials this weekend.

Before the strike, President Donald Trump spoke of the negotiations on Thursday, saying, "We remain committed to a Diplomatic Resolution to the Iran Nuclear Issue! My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon."

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Thursday, ahead of the strike, his country will continue to enrich uranium and vowed to rebuild facilities should they be destroyed, as tensions in the Middle East have escalated.