U.S. Strikes Iranian Nuclear Sites

Last Saturday, the United States Air Force and Navy attacked three nuclear facilities in Iran. This was the first offensive move by the U.S. in the Iran-Israel war, which means that the U.S. is now directly involved in more Middle Eastern conflicts.

The Fordow Uranium Enrichment Plant, the Natanz Nuclear Facility, and the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center were targeted with massive 30,000 pound bombs and missiles fired from a submarine. The attack was given the codename Operation Midnight Hammer, since the attack was initiated around midnight on Friday.

Afterwards, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the military had successfully obliterated the three bombing sites, calling it a “spectacular military success.” Defense officials reported that no U.S. aircraft were lost, and preliminary damage reports indicate severe destruction at all targeted sites. He stressed that further attacks would follow if Iran failed to pursue a peace agreement with Israel.

Tehran responded on Monday, June 24, by launching a missile barrage at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The attack reportedly caused no U.S. casualties. This caused Trump to describe it as a “weak response” and to call for both Iran and Israel to pursue a cease‑fire.

However, Iranian officials claimed that their nuclear materials had been safely relocated before the U.S. strike, and they denied any radioactive leakage. Official statements suggested that the fuel was moved secretly, raising concerns. On the other hand, satellite imagery analyzed by defense analysts showed major destruction at all three facilities, suggesting a significant setback to Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Some experts estimate the strikes may have delayed Iran’s nuclear program by several years, while other independent experts say the nation’s enterprise is far from destroyed.

The recent attacks have caused global discussions as well as Britain’s prime minister urging Iran to return to the negotiating table and rethink their plans. Meanwhile, the United Nations has called for an emergency Security Council session to address the growing crisis and prevent further escalation.

As tensions remain high, people around the world are watching closely as the war progresses with some questioning if the latest events will lead to peace or a much broader conflict.