On the night of June 21–22, 2025, the United States Armed Forces launched a series of massive airstrikes on Iran’s key nuclear facilities. The targets were three uranium enrichment centers: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. These sites were considered cornerstones of Iran’s nuclear program and had been under close scrutiny by the IAEA in recent years.

According to information from the Pentagon and official White House sources, the operation involved B-2 Spirit bombers, capable of bypassing advanced air defense systems, as well as drones and long-range missiles. The strike utilized GBU-57 MOP (Massive Ordnance Penetrator) bombs—specialized munitions designed to destroy fortified underground facilities. Additionally, Tomahawk cruise missiles were launched from US naval vessels stationed in the Persian Gulf. All three sites were hit almost simultaneously in what sources described as a “coordinated strike” that lasted less than 45 minutes.

President Donald Trump, speaking on the morning of June 22, hailed the operation as a “spectacular success,” stating:

“The world became safer last night. We destroyed critical infrastructure that posed a threat not only to Israel but to the entire free world. America has shown that it will not tolerate nuclear blackmail.”

He also confirmed that the operation was carried out in coordination with Israel, although Israeli aircraft did not directly participate in the attack.

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the strikes, calling them an “act of aggression and a violation of international law.” The statement emphasized that Iran “reserves the right to respond with all available means.”

According to preliminary Iranian reports, over 430 people were killed in the attacks, including engineers and security personnel, with more than 3,500 wounded. The destruction is said to be total, with the restoration of the facilities deemed impossible in the foreseeable future.

Israel expressed support for the US action, calling it a “necessary step against a nuclear threat.” Russia and China condemned the strikes and are convening an emergency session of the UN Security Council. The EU voiced concern over potential escalation and urged all parties to “refrain from further steps.”

Experts believe this strike dramatically shifts the balance of power in the region. It may provoke Iranian retaliation against US bases in Iraq, Syria, or the Persian Gulf, increase instability in the region, push Iran to withdraw from all IAEA agreements, and potentially lead to a surge in oil prices and disruptions in global supply chains.

 

#USA

#IRAN

22.06.2025 05:37