In a recent statement, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that U.S. airstrikes had “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s primary nuclear enrichment facilities, issuing a stern warning of further attacks should Iran fail to pursue peace.
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Speaking from the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Trump described the U.S. military intervention as a “spectacular military success,” following the country’s support of Israel’s air campaign against Iran. His announcement shocked many, as he took to social media to reveal strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear enrichment plant, as well as facilities in Natanz and Isfahan.
This escalation marks a significant shift, particularly given Trump’s prior commitment to steer clear of prolonged military engagements in the Middle East. Iran has responded assertively, vowing to retaliate against U.S. forces in the region should American involvement continue.
Trump emphasized, “If they do not seek peace, future attacks will be far greater and much easier,” underscoring his stance while flanked by key officials including Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump noted that a “full payload of BOMBS” was used in the assault on the underground facility at Fordow, qualifying it as a “primary site.” He concluded his address with appreciation for American military personnel, stating, “All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors.”
In response, Iranian authorities claimed there were “no signs of contamination” following the U.S. strikes, suggesting no danger to residents nearby according to the National Centre for the Nuclear Safety System.
Broader Implications
Early reports suggested U.S. B-2 bombers, known for their “bunker buster” capabilities, were en route to the region. However, Trump did not specify which aircraft or munitions were deployed. Iranian media confirmed that parts of the Fordow plant, along with Isfahan and Natanz sites, had been targeted.
In a move to bolster alliances, Trump communicated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the strikes, and a senior White House official revealed that Israel received a “heads up” before the attacks commenced. Netanyahu congratulated Trump, stating that “America has been truly unsurpassed.”
As tensions escalate, Israel announced a temporary airspace closure due to the ongoing situation, although land crossings with Egypt and Jordan remain operational. This closure comes amid Israel’s prior restrictions following the initiation of airstrikes on June 13, which were aimed at halting Iran’s perceived advancement towards nuclear capabilities.
Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has warned of severe retaliation if Israel’s campaign persists, affirming that the country will not abandon its nuclear agenda “under any circumstances.” Recently, Israel confirmed a second strike on Isfahan, targeting a centrifuge manufacturing site.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched drones targeting “strategic sites” in Israel, reiterating the nation’s stance against perceived aggression. Despite denials regarding nuclear weapon ambitions, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran’s right to a civilian nuclear program is non-negotiable, stating, “This right cannot be taken away by threats or war.”
International Dynamics
During a meeting in Istanbul, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi discussed the conflict with member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Concurrently, top diplomats from Britain, France, and Germany urged Araghchi to revive nuclear negotiations that had stalled due to recent hostilities.
Iran’s Houthi allies in Yemen threatened to renew attacks on U.S. vessels should the conflict escalate, despite a recent ceasefire agreement. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that at least 657 people had lost their lives in Iran as a result of the conflict, including 263 civilians, while Iranian sources indicated over 400 casualties from Israeli strikes.
Critics in the U.S., such as prominent Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, voiced concerns over the risk of entering a “potentially disastrous war in the Middle East.” As military tensions rise, the Israeli Defense Forces heightened their alert levels, focusing solely on essential operations.
In response to the U.S. strikes, Iran asserted it reserves all defensive options. The Israeli military urged citizens to seek shelter from the intensified barrage, which some reports indicated was more severe than previous exchanges. “The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences,” declared Foreign Minister Abbas, condemning the U.S. strikes as a “grave violation” of international law.
As the situation continues to evolve, air raid sirens echoed throughout Israel, sending millions to safety as explosions and missile interceptions occurred across multiple regions. While it remains unclear how effective the air defense systems were, reports indicated significant damage in central and northern Israeli areas, with rescue operations ongoing amidst the debris.
Furthermore, air traffic has been significantly disrupted, as airlines adjust their routes to avoid the increasingly volatile region.
“The storm is brewing, and the international community is watching closely,” experts warn as these developments unfold.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
