U.S. officials held two calls with Israeli leadership during Iran missile exchanges

U.S. officials placed two calls to Israeli leadership during the overnight period of missile launches from Iran toward Israel. The first call occurred after Iran's initial launches. During that call, U.S. officials stated that Israel did not have approval for wider military action and urged restraint.

Israeli officials responded that Iran had violated Israeli sovereignty and proceeded with strikes. After Iran's final barrage, Tehran contacted Washington directly and indicated readiness for a ceasefire. Israeli forces began preparations for a larger third strike.

U.S. officials then made a second call, stating that further action should be paused while an agreement was pursued. The planned Israeli strike was cancelled after aircraft had already been readied for launch. Five regional governments also contacted U.S. officials requesting restraint on the Israeli side.

Pattern of events The sequence showed U.S. officials intervening at the end of each cycle while Israeli decisions to act without prior approval initiated each round.