The United States has carried out targeted airstrikes on Iran’s three principal nuclear facilities—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow—marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Announcing the operation in a televised Oval Office address, President Donald Trump described the strikes as a “spectacular military success,” stating that the targeted facilities were “completely and totally obliterated.”
Trump emphasized that the U.S. does not seek regime change in Iran, but warned that additional military action could follow if Iran does not agree to a diplomatic resolution. “If peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill,” he said. The president also confirmed that six bunker-buster bombs were dropped on the fortified Fordow site and 30 Tomahawk missiles were launched at the others. U.S. B-2 bombers played a key role in the operation, according to officials.
Iranian state media acknowledged that Fordow was struck, but claimed the site had already been evacuated and that enriched uranium had been moved in advance to prevent radiation risks. Iranian authorities have yet to release a full casualty report, though local reports indicate significant damage. Israel, meanwhile, welcomed the U.S. action, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it a “bold decision” and a blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The strikes follow over a week of intense military exchanges between Iran and Israel. Since June 13, Iran has fired more than 450 missiles at Israel, killing 24 civilians and injuring over 1,200 people, according to Israeli authorities. In return, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly caused over 430 deaths and more than 3,500 injuries in Iran.
While Trump’s move has drawn praise from some U.S. lawmakers, it has also sparked backlash from others who argue that the president overstepped his authority. Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez described the strikes as “grounds for impeachment,” while Republican Senator Roger Wicker cautioned that the U.S. now faces “serious choices ahead.” Critics from Trump’s own MAGA-aligned base have also questioned the decision, urging a more detailed explanation of the U.S. role.
International reaction has been swift and concerned. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the strikes represent a “dangerous escalation” and urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions. Russian President Vladimir Putin also voiced disapproval, stating that he did not even want to discuss the possibility of further conflict, and called for balanced negotiations to preserve both Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and Israel’s right to security.
With tensions at a boiling point and diplomatic efforts so far failing, the region remains on edge. Trump made clear in his address that the U.S. will act again if necessary, stating bluntly: “Iran must now agree to end this war.”
