US Conducts Major Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

The United States launched a significant military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear sites over the weekend, warning Tehran against retaliation. The operation, dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer,” involved the use of advanced bunker-buster bombs to severely damage three key nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.

Defense officials confirmed that the attacks inflicted extensive destruction on all three sites, with initial assessments indicating severe damage. The operation marked the longest B-2 stealth bomber mission since the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, emphasizing the scale and importance of the strike. Officials stated that the mission’s focus was the destruction of Iran’s nuclear capabilities, not regime change.

Military leaders highlighted that Iran did not fire at US bombers or missiles during the operation, suggesting that the element of surprise was maintained throughout. The aim was to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program while avoiding prolonged conflict.

The strikes involved dropping over a dozen 15-ton GBU-57A/B MOP bunker buster bombs—a first in combat—aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Additionally, satellite imagery shows the mountain at Fordow was obliterated by the bombs.

Iran responded by voting to close the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane transporting about 20% of the world’s oil, risking significant economic disruption. Protesters in Tehran also gathered to oppose the US strike, chanting “Death to America” and displaying images of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei.

Meanwhile, Russia, China, and Pakistan condemned the strikes, warning of “a dangerous escalation” and the potential for further proliferation of nuclear weapons to Iran. The Department of Homeland Security issued a terrorism alert, warning of possible Iranian attacks in response.

President Trump signaled that the US does not seek regime change explicitly but emphasized that Iran must cease its nuclear ambitions. He also suggested the possibility of regime change if necessary, posting on social media about the regime’s failure to follow past warnings.

Officials clarified that the operation was intended solely to neutralize Iran’s nuclear threat, not to topple its government. The US continues to explore diplomatic channels, sending both public and private messages to Tehran to return to negotiations.