Iran’s nuclear facilities have reportedly suffered significant damage following airstrikes by the United States. The Pentagon stated that the strikes, part of an operation dubbed "Midnight Hammer," involved seven B-2 stealth bombers and targeted three key sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
The US defense secretary announced that initial assessments showed all precision munitions hit their intended targets. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, indicated that it would take time to fully evaluate the extent of the damage, but early reports suggest severe destruction at all three sites.
Fordow, a secretive facility buried deep within a mountain, is one of Iran’s primary uranium enrichment plants. Satellite images taken after the strikes reveal significant holes in the mountain, indicating heavy damage. Natanz, another critical site, is also believed to have been severely affected, with reports of new damage visible in satellite imagery.
Isfahan, which houses a large nuclear technology center, also suffered extensive damage, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Rafael Grossi, the IAEA’s director, confirmed that Natanz has been "completely destroyed," while Isfahan has experienced significant destruction.
The airstrikes come amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, particularly after the outbreak of war between Israel and Iran earlier in June. Iran’s foreign minister warned that the US strikes would have "everlasting consequences" and stated that Iran reserves the right to retaliate.
Despite the extensive damage reported, there are indications that Iran may have moved much of its highly enriched uranium to a secure location before the strikes. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the US operation in curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
In response to the strikes, Iranian authorities have heightened military readiness and threatened retaliation. The situation has prompted concerns about a broader conflict in the region, with Gulf states and the UK increasing their military protections.
While the US government maintains that it does not seek war, it has made it clear that it will act decisively to protect its interests and allies. The airstrikes have drawn mixed reactions, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praising the decision as a historic move, while critics argue that it undermines ongoing diplomatic efforts.
As the situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring the fallout from these strikes, with calls for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.