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U.S. and Israeli Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites Signal Stronger International Stance

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice described the recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities as a pivotal moment for the Middle East and a demonstration of increased American credibility on the world stage.

Following the U.S. assault on three Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend, Rice commended both American military and Israeli forces, emphasizing the apparent significant damage inflicted on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. She indicated that while the complete extent of the damage remains unknown, the operation has likely set Iran back considerably, making it difficult for Tehran to produce a nuclear weapon for the time being.

The targeted sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—were hit early Sunday morning by U.S. B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles as part of Operation Midnight Hammer. The B-2 aircraft flew nonstop from Missouri, dropping heavy ordinance designed to penetrate underground bunkers. Additional strikes on Isfahan involved cruise missiles launched from a U.S. submarine. Visual footage from the Pentagon showcased the destructive power of the bunker-buster bombs used against fortified underground targets.

Despite ongoing discussions of Iran’s uranium stockpiles and the state of its nuclear program post-strike, some officials have publicly declared the operation a success. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that President Trump’s order was the most complex military operation in history and resulted in a ceasefire, effectively ending a 12-day conflict.

Condoleezza Rice emphasized that these military actions have significantly hindered Iran’s nuclear ambitions and weakened its military and scientific infrastructure. She criticized an early intelligence assessment suggesting minimal damage as irresponsible and highlighted the effectiveness of the strikes.

Rice also pointed out Iran’s long history of regional destabilization and hostility toward Israel and the U.S., asserting that the regime’s primary goal remains the destruction of Israel and that peace is unlikely given their actions over the past decades.

She concluded that the strikes bolster U.S. global credibility, especially after recent perceived failures such as the withdrawal from Afghanistan, asserting that maintaining international influence requires consistent effort and recent military success signals America’s intent to shape the international system actively.

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