The United States has launched a significant military operation named “Operation Midnight Hammer,” targeting key nuclear sites in Iran. The operation involved the bombing of three major facilities, with U.S. President Donald Trump declaring that these sites have been “completely and fully obliterated.” The President has warned of further strikes should Iran retaliate.
This latest U.S. military action comes after a week marked by heightened conflict between Israel and Iran, initiated by Israel’s aggressive attacks against Iran’s military and nuclear installations.
The Israeli strikes began on June 13, causing significant casualties among Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists. In response, Iran retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drones towards Israel, with some of these threats surpassing Israel’s advanced air defense systems. The ongoing war has resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries, with casualties reported in both countries.
While Iran maintains that its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes, Israel perceives it as an existential threat necessitating military intervention. Although U.S. intelligence has concluded that Tehran is not actively pursuing nuclear weapons, President Trump and Israeli leaders express concerns over Iran’s ability to quickly develop such capabilities, considering it an imminent threat.
Tensions have been escalating in the region over the past two years as Israel has sought to eliminate the Hamas militant organization, which is supported by Iran. This situation has been further complicated following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
In a televised address from the White House, President Trump outlined the details of the military strikes on the Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz nuclear sites. He characterized the operation as a “spectacular military success” that would force Iran to pursue peace rather than aggression.
During a briefing, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated that while it would take time to assess the full impact, initial reports suggested that all three targeted nuclear sites suffered extensive damage.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the strikes were not intended to lead to regime change in Iran. Instead, he framed the mission as a preventive measure to ensure regional stability.
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization confirmed the attacks but asserted that its nuclear program would remain unaffected. Authorities from Iran and the U.N. nuclear watchdog indicated that there was no sign of radioactive contamination following the airstrikes.
The Fordo facility, which is located deep underground, was targeted using advanced bunker-buster bombs exclusive to the United States. These munitions are designed to penetrate the ground before detonation, showcasing a significant escalation in military capability.
In a rapid response, Iran launched a missile barrage at Israel, resulting in over 80 reported injuries, primarily of a minor nature. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denounced the U.S. strikes, stating that the time for diplomacy had elapsed and that Iran retains the right to defend itself. He characterized the actions of the U.S. as a crossing of a significant red line.
The specifics of how Iran will retaliate remain uncertain. Speculation suggests various possible responses, ranging from attacks on U.S. military installations in the region to potential disruptions aimed at global oil supplies. There are also fears that Iran may hasten its nuclear weapons development in light of the recent U.S. intervention.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern regarding the U.S. military’s use of force, calling it a “dangerous escalation” that could have wider implications. He urged all parties involved to prioritize diplomatic solutions to mitigate the risk of further conflict.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged the potential dangers posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions but also called for restraint from all sides. She emphasized the need for dialogue and urged the parties to retreat from the brink of further escalation.
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have threatened to resume attacks on U.S. vessels in response to the U.S.-Israel military collaboration. They called for a unified Muslim front against what they perceive as “Zionist-American arrogance.”
Prior to the U.S. strikes, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had warned of severe repercussions for any military actions targeting Iran, hinting at the potential for far-reaching consequences.
Amid these developments, the Israeli military has prepared for a protracted conflict, while Iranian officials have highlighted the risks associated with American involvement in the region. With global leaders increasingly anxious, the situation remains highly volatile, with calls for de-escalation and diplomacy growing louder.
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