Washington: In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, former U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday confirmed that American forces have conducted coordinated airstrikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation marks the first direct U.S. military involvement in the conflict, previously dominated by Israeli-led offensives targeting Iran’s defense systems.
Trump Calls Operation a “Historic Moment”
Taking to his platform Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“We have completed our very successful attack on the three nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iranian airspace. A full payload of bombs was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home.”
He further praised the U.S. military and hinted at a turning point in the ongoing conflict, saying:
“Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the world that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!”
Trump announced he would deliver a formal address to the nation at 10:00 PM ET, describing the operation as a “historic moment for the United States, Israel, and the world.”
B-2 Bombers and Bunker-Buster Bombs Deployed
Preliminary reports indicate that two B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, each capable of carrying the 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator (bunker-buster bombs), were used in the operation. These aircraft, due to their stealth capabilities and payload capacity, are believed to be the only ones capable of targeting fortified underground facilities such as Fordow.
Trump reportedly informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the impending strikes during a phone call the night before the operation.
Mixed Reactions from Iran and Israel
Iranian state media dismissed Trump’s claims as exaggerated, stating that the extent of the damage is yet to be determined.
“Trump usually bluffs. The Islamic Republic’s nuclear industry cannot be destroyed by bombing,” said Iran’s state broadcaster.
Tehran’s official response remains measured, but Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any direct U.S. involvement in attacks against Iran could have severe consequences. Speaking in Istanbul, he stated that negotiations with the U.S. are off the table while Iranian citizens are “under bombardment.”
On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Trump’s decision.
“Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change the course of history,” Netanyahu said in a televised address.
“History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons.”Netanyahu praised the strike as a demonstration of “peace through strength” and reaffirmed the strategic alliance between the U.S. and Israel.
Regional and Global Implications
U.S. and Israeli officials have long maintained that only American stealth bombers equipped with bunker-buster munitions could penetrate Iran’s deeply fortified nuclear sites. The Fordow facility, buried deep under a mountain, has long been considered impervious to conventional airstrikes.
With the U.S. now directly involved in military action against Iran, the region braces for potential retaliation. The coming days may determine whether the strike leads to diplomatic breakthroughs or plunges the Middle East further into conflict.
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