US Airstrikes on Iran Hit Key Nuclear Sites
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Trump Confirms “Successful” Bombing as Middle East Tensions Soar
JUNE 22,2025
The United States has launched coordinated airstrikes on three of Iran’s most crucial nuclear facilities—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict and threatening regional stability.
Former President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes late Friday, flanked by Vice President JD Vance and top defense officials. He declared that the nuclear sites had been “obliterated”, and warned of further action if Iran refuses to negotiate.
What Facilities Were Hit and What Weapons Did the US Use?
The US military targeted:
- Fordo uranium enrichment plant, hidden deep within a mountain south of Tehran.
- Natanz, known for its advanced centrifuge operations.
- Isfahan, involved in uranium conversion and nuclear research.
To penetrate the heavily fortified Fordo site, the US used the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP). This 13,000kg “bunker buster” can slice through up to 61 meters of earth or 18 meters of concrete before detonating. Experts say that only the US possesses a bomb capable of reaching Fordo’s depths.
US Airstrikes on Iran What Is the Damage So Far?
Iranian officials admitted that the facilities were struck, but they claimed the attack caused minimal disruption. According to state media, Iran evacuated the sites days earlier, relocating enriched material and critical personnel.
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran called the strikes a “barbaric violation” of international law. However, both the UN’s nuclear watchdog (IAEA) and Saudi Arabia confirmed that radiation levels remained stable, suggesting no immediate environmental threat.
How Did Iran Respond?
Hours after the US strike, Iran fired a wave of missiles at Israeli cities Tel Aviv and Haifa, injuring at least 86 people. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned the US bombing and accused Trump of betraying his campaign promise to avoid new wars in the Middle East.
US Airstrikes on Iran What Could Iran Do Next?
According to analysts, Iran may choose from three possible responses:
- Do nothing – Although this might avoid further US retaliation, it risks making Iran look weak domestically and internationally.
- Retaliate immediately – Iran could launch its stockpiled missiles at US military bases across the Middle East or deploy drones in swarm attacks against US Navy ships.
- Strike later – Iran may wait until tensions cool, then launch a surprise attack when US forces lower their defenses.
Each strategy comes with its own risks, and Tehran now faces global scrutiny as it plans its next move.
Trump: “Many Targets Left”
Speaking in a live address, Trump warned that future attacks could be “far greater” unless Iran agrees to resume negotiations.
“There are many targets left,” he said. “We prefer peace, but we are prepared for anything.”
Some Republicans, including Senator Ted Cruz, supported the action, while others like Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene expressed opposition, calling it “not our fight.”
Democrats voiced strong criticism. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries warned of a potential “disastrous entanglement”, and Senator Bernie Sanders called the strike “grossly unconstitutional”, citing Trump’s decision to bypass Congress.
US Airstrikes on Iran Global Reaction: Alarm and Caution
The strikes sparked widespread international concern:
- UK PM Keir Starmer supported the action, calling Iran’s nuclear ambitions a “grave threat.”
- UN Secretary General António Guterres called the situation a “dangerous escalation.”
- EU’s Kaja Kallas urged all parties to “step back from the brink.”
- India’s PM Narendra Modi contacted Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, stressing that “dialogue is the only path forward.”
- Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev ridiculed Trump, saying, “So much for the peacemaker—now he’s started a new war.”
How Did It All Begin?
On June 13, Israel launched a surprise airstrike on dozens of Iranian nuclear and military installations, claiming the move was essential to stop Iran’s alleged push for a nuclear bomb.
Iran retaliated quickly, unleashing hundreds of rockets and drones toward Israel. The air war has continued for over a week, drawing in more players and widening the conflict.
Although Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, both Israel and the US believe otherwise. Trump previously criticized past administrations for starting “endless wars”, but his recent actions indicate a shift in policy. Just two days ago, he gave Iran a two-week window to rejoin nuclear talks—a deadline he cut short with force. NOWTREND
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