WASHINGTON: In a dramatic escalation of the Middle East conflict, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that American forces had destroyed Iran’s three main nuclear sites — Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow — in coordinated airstrikes carried out alongside Israel.
Calling the operation a “spectacular military success,” Trump claimed Iran’s nuclear program had been “completely obliterated.” Speaking from the Oval Office with senior officials at his side, Trump warned, “If peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed, and skill.”
The US, however, has also reached out diplomatically to Tehran, stating the strikes were limited and Washington does not seek regime change. According to US officials, the attacks included B-2 bombers, six bunker-busters, and 30 Tomahawk missiles.
Iran confirmed hits on Fordow and denounced the US action as a violation of international law. Iranian leaders warned of “everlasting consequences” and vowed retaliation. Meanwhile, Iranian drones reportedly struck strategic sites in Israel.
Israeli PM Netanyahu praised Trump’s actions, declaring them “historic.” With tensions at a peak, both nations brace for the next phase of a rapidly intensifying regional conflict — one that could reshape the Middle East’s future.
