Washington: The United States conducted precision strikes on three key nuclear facilities in Iran over the weekend, President Donald Trump has said, casting them as a "spectacular" success that "completely" obliterated the Islamic Republic's key uranium enrichment facilities. Trump made the announcement in a televised address on Saturday, two days after he indicated he would decide on military action against Iran "within two weeks."
According to Yonhap News Agency, the strikes targeted the Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities in Iran. Six B-2 bombers dropped 12 bunker buster bombs on Fordo, while submarines launched 30 cruise missiles at Natanz and Isfahan. Additionally, one B-2 plane dropped two bunker-buster bombs on Natanz, aiming to dismantle Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity and halt its nuclear threat.
The military action has sparked concerns about potential retaliatory strikes from Iran on U.S. targets in the Middle East, where over 40,000 U.S. troops and Pentagon personnel are stationed. President Trump defended the strikes, accusing Iran of long-standing hostile actions against U.S. military personnel and stating that the attacks were necessary due to Iran's historical aggression.
In his address, Trump emphasized the destructive potential of future U.S. military actions if Iran does not seek peace, indicating that many targets remain and could be quickly neutralized if necessary. The president's remarks underscored his commitment to countering what he perceives as Iran's threat to international stability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Trump's decision, calling it a pivotal moment that could lead to a prosperous and peaceful Middle East. In contrast, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the U.S. strike, labeling it a "dangerous escalation" that poses a significant threat to international peace and security.
The U.S. attack represents a significant development amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East. It follows Israel's earlier strike on Iranian facilities, which heightened fears of broader regional conflict. Trump's actions, despite the "America First" policy, indicate a willingness to engage militarily to counter perceived threats from Iran, even as international actors express concern over escalating hostilities.