On June 22, the United States military launched a series of airstrikes on three nuclear facilities in Iran. The attack was an unexpected culmination of growing tensions between Washington and Tehran. According to US President Donald Trump, the goal of the operation was to “completely destroy” Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities and neutralize the “nuclear threat” from the Islamic Republic.
What Trump Said
Immediately after the attack, Donald Trump gave an emergency address to the nation. In a brief five-minute speech, he called the incident a “historic moment” and emphasized that the operation was “massive, precise, and successful.”
"Iran is the Middle East bully. Today we took a step toward peace. If the Iranian regime continues on the path of confrontation, the consequences will be far more tragic," the American leader said.
He stressed that the United States is ready to attack Iranian targets again as soon as possible if “the threat is not finally eliminated.”
What is known about the attack
According to preliminary information, the operation involved B-2 strategic bombers capable of carrying high-power precision weapons. The strikes hit key facilities associated with uranium enrichment, including the nuclear center in Fordow, one of Iran's most secure facilities.
However, the Iranian side claims that losses and critical damage were avoided. According to the representative of Iranian radio and television Hassan Abedini, all key materials were evacuated in advance and at the time of the attack the objects did not pose a radiation threat.
An adviser to the Iranian parliament speaker, Mehdi Mohammadi, said the country "was prepared" for such a development:
"We were expecting a strike on Fordow. Evacuation has been carried out. Damage is minimal, facilities will survive," he wrote on X (former Twitter).
Israel's reaction
The US operation appears to have been coordinated with Israel. Hours before the attack, President Trump spoke by phone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who issued a public statement shortly after the strikes:
"Peace is achieved through force. President Trump's decision to change the course of history and demonstrate force is courageous and just," Netanyahu said.
The IDF (Israel Defense Forces), in turn, announced the transition of all areas of the country to a mode of operation of only vital services. Classes in schools have been cancelled in Israel, and the work of most institutions, including cultural and sports ones, has ceased.
What's next?
The world community is still refraining from making official statements, but analysts have already started talking about the beginning of a new escalation in the Middle East. Further developments will depend on Iran's response and the parties' readiness for negotiations.
According to some reports, an emergency meeting is being prepared in the UN Security Council. Tehran has already stated that the incident will be regarded as an act of aggression and that "a response will not be long in coming"
The situation continues to evolve. Stay tuned for updates.