Additional Coverage:
Tensions Flare as US Bombs Iranian Nuclear Sites, Tehran Vows Retaliation
US airstrikes have rocked three Iranian nuclear sites, including the heavily fortified Fordow facility. Satellite imagery reveals significant damage, with craters suggesting the use of powerful bunker-busting bombs. While the full extent of the damage remains unclear, images show the mountainside near Fordow blanketed in a layer of gray ash.
President Trump declared the operation a success, while Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed the use of B-2 bombers and over a dozen bunker-buster bombs. Hegseth dubbed the mission “Operation Midnight Hammer,” stating it had significantly degraded Iran’s nuclear capabilities. He emphasized that the strikes were not aimed at regime change, but warned of swift and decisive action to protect US interests and allies.
Iran, which consistently denies pursuing nuclear weapons, has vowed “everlasting consequences” for the attacks. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran “reserves all options,” escalating fears of a wider regional conflict. This comes as the conflict between Iran and Israel enters its tenth day, adding another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
The recent strikes represent a significant escalation of US involvement in the region. While the head of the UN nuclear watchdog recently stated there is no evidence of a systematic Iranian nuclear weapons program, a report last month revealed Iran possesses a substantial amount of highly enriched uranium, just a step away from weapons-grade levels.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned Iran against retaliatory action, calling it “the worst mistake they’ve ever made.” However, he reiterated that the US is not seeking regime change and remains open to diplomatic solutions.
The current situation evokes the 2020 assassination of Qassem Suleimani, when Iran retaliated against US forces in Iraq after giving advance warning to avoid casualties. Whether such restraint will be exercised this time remains uncertain.