Rubio says US launched strikes on Iran because Israel planned to attack

US Senator Marco Rubio revealed that the United States launched strikes against Iran due to intelligence indicating Israel was planning to attack, while Saudi Arabia reported that drones struck the US embassy in Riyadh as the Middle East conflict entered its fourth day. The escalating tensions have raised concerns about a wider conflict potentially disrupting global oil markets and economic stability. Rubio's statement suggests a defensive posture by the US, attempting to prevent a direct Israeli military response that could further destabilize the area. The drone attack on the US embassy compound represents a significant escalation, targeting diplomatic facilities which are typically protected under international law, with energy markets already showing volatility as investors assess the risks to supply chains in the crucial oil shipping lanes and production facilities of the region.