And Iran having a nuclear weapon I’ve believed for a long time is a very, very bad outcome for the region and for the world.”

So explain this:

U.S. puts brakes on Israeli plan for attack on Iran nuclear facilities

The American administration has rejected an Israeli request for military equipment and support that would improve Israel’s ability to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The Americans viewed the request, which was transmitted (and rejected) at the highest level, as a sign that Israel is in the advanced stages of preparations to attack Iran. They therefore warned Israel against attacking, saying such a strike would undermine American interests. They also demanded that Israel give them prior notice if it nevertheless decided to strike Iran.

As compensation for the requests it rejected, Washington offered to improve Israel’s defenses against surface-to-surface missiles.

haaretz.com

Those highest levels? BUSH/RICE