We Know About US Strikes on Iran's Nuclear Facilities

 We Know About US Strikes on Iran's Nuclear Facilities

In a dramatic escalation of long-standing tensions, the United States has launched targeted strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, according to multiple official and media sources. While the full scope of the operation is still being assessed, the action marks one of the most direct confrontations between Washington and Tehran in recent years—and could trigger far-reaching geopolitical consequences.

Confirmed Targets and Impact

The strikes, reportedly conducted late last night local time, targeted multiple locations believed to be involved in Iran’s uranium enrichment and weapons development programs. Preliminary reports suggest Natanz and Fordow—two of Iran's most secure and high-profile nuclear facilities—were among the primary targets. Satellite imagery released early this morning appears to show significant structural damage at both sites.

According to US defense officials speaking on background, the strikes were "surgical" and aimed at disabling Iran’s nuclear capabilities without causing mass casualties. The Pentagon has not yet confirmed the full list of targets but stated that the action was taken to prevent what it called an "imminent threat" posed by Iran's accelerated enrichment activities.

Tehran’s Response

Iran’s government has condemned the strikes, labeling them as “acts of aggression and a grave violation of international law.” Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi vowed retaliation during a televised address, stating that “the Islamic Republic will respond decisively to this blatant assault on our sovereignty.”

State media in Iran has reported a number of injuries and possible fatalities among nuclear staff, though these claims have not been independently verified. Iranian forces have reportedly been placed on high alert, with anti-aircraft systems mobilized around key cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Bushehr.

International Reactions

The international community has responded with alarm. The United Nations Security Council has called for an emergency session, with several member nations urging both sides to show restraint. Russia and China, both long-time allies of Iran, have criticized the US action, while European allies have expressed deep concern about the potential for escalation.

Israeli officials have remained officially silent but are widely believed to have supported or shared intelligence with Washington ahead of the strikes. Israel has long maintained that a nuclear-armed Iran poses an existential threat and has conducted covert operations against Iranian scientists and infrastructure in the past.

A Long-Brewing Confrontation

The roots of the crisis trace back to the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 under President Donald Trump. Since then, Iran has gradually reduced its compliance with the agreement, enriching uranium beyond permitted levels and limiting international inspections. Despite sporadic diplomatic efforts, a return to the deal has remained elusive under the Biden administration.

Recent intelligence suggested that Iran had made significant progress toward weapons-grade enrichment, prompting concerns within the US national security establishment. Last week, reports surfaced that Iran may have reached 90% enrichment purity at one facility—a red line for many Western policymakers.

What Comes Next?

The world now watches anxiously as the fallout from the strikes unfolds. Analysts warn that the situation could spiral into a broader regional conflict, especially if Iran follows through on its threat to retaliate against US interests or allies in the Middle East.

Oil markets have already reacted, with Brent crude prices spiking by 7% in early trading. Global financial markets are bracing for further volatility as investors assess the potential for protracted conflict.

Diplomatic backchannels are reportedly active, with neutral parties such as Switzerland and Oman offering to mediate between Washington and Tehran. However, given the scale of the military action and Iran’s strong rhetoric, prospects for de-escalation remain uncertain.

For now, the world holds its breath.

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