US Strikes on Iran's Nuclear Sites: Massive Damage Confirmed, Global Reactions Pour In

US Confirms Precision Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities

On Sunday, the United States launched targeted airstrikes on three of Iran's key nuclear sites—Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan—in a mission dubbed Operation Midnight Hammer. The Pentagon confirmed the use of B-2 Spirit bombers, marking the longest such mission since 2001.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the operation was “bold and brilliant,” reaffirming American military deterrence. Six 30,000-pound bunker buster bombs were dropped on Fordow, while 30 Tomahawk missiles struck Isfahan and Natanz.

Trump Declares ‘Monumental Damage’ to Iran's Nuclear Sites

Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, “Monumental damage was done to all nuclear sites in Iran, as shown by satellite images. Obliteration is an accurate term!” He warned that more attacks could follow unless Iran agrees to peace negotiations.

Global Community Responds to US-Iran Escalation

Iran Labels US Action as Aggression

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, speaking from Moscow, condemned the strikes as an “illegitimate act of aggression.” He emphasized that Iran's response was an act of “self-defense” and highlighted Iran’s strategic partnership with Russia.

Ayatollah Khamenei Blames Israel

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned Israel, calling their involvement a “big mistake” and vowing that “punishment continues.”

IAEA Reports and UN Security Council Emergency Meeting

Fordow Site Sustained Visible Damage

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed visible craters at Iran’s Fordow nuclear site. However, officials said a detailed assessment of underground facilities would take time.

Emergency IAEA Meeting on June 23

An emergency IAEA board meeting is scheduled to address the ramifications of the US strikes. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council (UNSC) is also set to meet, with Russia, China, and Pakistan pushing for a ceasefire resolution.

Middle East and International Reactions

Egypt Calls for De-escalation

Egypt expressed “deep concern” and urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions, emphasizing the risks to regional and international peace.

Russia Condemns US Military Action

Russia released a strong statement condemning the strikes and demanded an immediate end to the aggression. Moscow reaffirmed its call for a diplomatic resolution.

Afghanistan’s Taliban Regime Reacts

The Taliban government in Afghanistan called the strikes unacceptable, warning of worsening instability in the region.

Rising Tensions and Military Movements

Iran Threatens to Close Strait of Hormuz

Iranian MP Esmaeil Kowsari announced that the Majlis (Parliament) voted to approve the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial energy trade route. Final approval lies with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

Israeli Strikes in Bushehr Confirmed

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed airstrikes on Iran’s Bushehr port city, home to its only nuclear power plant. Targets included missile launchers, UAV storage, and military sites.

Explosion Heard in Bushehr

Local Iranian media reported a “massive explosion” in Bushehr province shortly after the IDF's confirmation.

US Clarifies Its Position on Conflict

VP J.D. Vance: ‘We’re Targeting Iran’s Nuclear Program, Not Iran’

US Vice President J.D. Vance stated the US is not at war with Iran, but with its nuclear weapons program. He reiterated that the US has no plans for a ground invasion and warned Iran against closing the Strait of Hormuz, calling such a move “suicidal.”

What We Know So Far

Operation Midnight Hammer involved long-range B-2 bomber missions and Tomahawk missile strikes.

Iran confirmed attacks on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, but reported no radiation leaks.

The IAEA and the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) are assessing damage.

Iran submitted a complaint to the UNSC.

The situation remains tense with possible retaliation from Iran.

Global powers are urging restraint and return to diplomacy.

Iran Warns of Future Actions

Foreign Minister Araghchi hinted at multiple retaliatory options while keeping the door to diplomacy slightly open. He said Iran would decide its next course of action once the aggression ends.