President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States carried out airstrikes on three of Iran’s most critical nuclear sites, Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, marking the first direct American intervention in Israel’s ongoing conflict with Tehran. The strike on Fordoww, a heavily fortified underground facility, reportedly involved the use of six 30,000-pound “bunker buster” bombs, weapons only deployable by the US Air Force’s B-2 stealth bombers.
Trump announced the operation early Sunday, calling it a “very successful military operation” and a “historic moment for the United States, Israel, and the world.” He added: “All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors... NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!” The move comes just days after the president suggested a diplomatic solution might still be possible, raising questions over the speed and scope of his military decision.
The escalation follows more than a week of coordinated Israeli strikes aimed at crippling Iran’s air defences and nuclear infrastructure. While Israel has claimed some success, officials in Jerusalem made clear they needed US firepower, specifically the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator to destroy the deeply buried Fordow facility . Trump’s decision to greenlight the strikes suggests he now sees military force as the only viable path to halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Here are the top developments:
Trump confirms US strikes with bunker busters
President Trump made a surprise announcement Saturday, stating that the US had launched a “very successful attack” on three nuclear sites in Iran. He claimed that a “full payload of BOMBS” was dropped on Fordow, the most fortified of Iran’s facilities. Fox News host Sean Hannity later said he had spoken to Trump directly, confirming that six bunker buster bombs were used at Fordow, while 30 Tomahawk missiles hit Natanz and Isfahan. The B-2 stealth bombers used for the mission are the only aircraft capable of carrying the 30,000-lb GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator.
Iran condemns US attacks on nuclear sites, citing violation of international law
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization has condemned recent attacks on its nuclear facilities in Fordoww, Natanz, and Isfahan, claiming the sites were targeted “by the enemies.” In a statement, the organization said that the attacks violate international law and declared that it will not allow the development of this “national industry” to be stopped. It added that it has begun taking necessary measures, including legal proceedings, to “defend the rights” of Iran. The organization also called on the international community to condemn what it described as “lawlessness based on the law of the jungle” and to support Iran in achieving its legitimate rights.
Netanyahu praises Trump
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded in a recorded statement released by his office at 4:41 a.m. local time (0141 GMT), praising U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions. He said, “Tonight, Trump and the US acted with a lot of strength” and added, “America has been truly unsurpassed.” Netanyahu stated that “history will record that President Trump acted to deny the most dangerous regime, the world’s most dangerous weapons.” He concluded by saying Trump’s leadership has created a pivot of history that can help lead the Middle East and beyond to a future of prosperity and peace.
The role of Israel’s prior offensive
The US strikes come after nine days of sustained Israeli bombing raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Israeli officials say their campaign severely damaged Iranian air defences and key nuclear sites, opening a narrow opportunity for the US to deliver a decisive strike. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar claimed Iran’s nuclear programme had been set back by two years. Tehran, however, continues to deny it seeks nuclear weapons and insists its programme is for peaceful purposes.
What are the bunker buster bombs?
The GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-lb conventional bomb, is designed to destroy heavily fortified targets buried deep underground. Fordow, for instance, is estimated to be buried 80 to 90 metres beneath the surface. US and Israeli officials say the bunker busters, which drill deeper with each successive blast, offer the best chance of destroying such sites. These bombs can only be deployed by B-2 stealth bombers, which were reportedly seen departing US bases earlier in the week.
Iran’s nuclear sites: What was hit
The three Iranian sites hit Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan are central to its nuclear ambitions. Fordow is deeply buried and recently ramped up uranium enrichment to 60%. Natanz, Iran’s largest enrichment facility, hosts thousands of centrifuges in underground bunkers. Isfahan, a major research centre, includes conversion facilities and three reactors. The International Atomic Energy Agency had earlier confirmed enriched uranium production at all three sites. Tehran acknowledged attacks at all locations, though claimed that the sites had been evacuated “some time ago.”
Iran vows retaliation and accuses US of ‘all-out war’
Iranian officials responded with fury to the US strikes. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei warned that American involvement would bring “irreparable damage.” President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would not halt its nuclear programme “under any circumstances.” Tehran’s retaliation has already included suicide drone attacks on Israel and warnings from Houthi allies in Yemen to resume Red Sea attacks on US vessels. Iranian officials have promised a “more devastating” response if the strikes continue.
Diplomacy collapses as Trump turns to force
The US had pursued a diplomatic track for months, with Trump twice urging Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to delay military action. However, after talks failed to produce results, Trump reversed course. Vice President JD Vance defended the decision, stating, “He is only interested in using the American military to accomplish the American people’s goals.” The shift from diplomacy to airstrikes marks a return to Trump’s hardline stance, consistent with his withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018.
Domestic reaction: Republicans cheer, critics warn
The strikes received strong backing from Republican lawmakers. Senator Lindsey Graham praised the decision, calling it “well done,” while Senator John Cornyn labelled it “courageous.” However, some conservatives were uneasy. Congressman Thomas Massie said, “This is not Constitutional,” citing Trump’s promise to avoid endless wars. Trump has also faced criticism from voices within the MAGA base who argue the move contradicts his America First pledge. But others, including Democratic Senator John Fetterman, backed the strikes, calling Iran a global threat.
Regional reaction: Allies divided on escalation
The strikes have also stirred regional tensions. Saudi Arabia condemned what it called “blatant Israeli aggressions” and warned of regional destabilisation. Egypt rejected Israel’s campaign and urged for an immediate ceasefire. Both countries, having recently mended ties with Iran, now face a diplomatic balancing act. Meanwhile, European diplomats urged Iran to return to nuclear talks. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation convened an emergency session in Istanbul to address the growing crisis.
Bunker busters raise fears of nuclear contamination
One of the biggest concerns is the potential release of nuclear material. Fordow’s underground enrichment of uranium to 60% raises the risk that a direct hit by a GBU-57 could lead to contamination. The Arms Control Association condemned the attacks, calling them “an irresponsible departure from diplomacy.” The group warned that military action may push Iran to view nuclear weapons as essential for deterrence, reducing prospects for any future agreement.
What next: a turning point or the beginning?
Trump’s social media posts struck a triumphant note, declaring the operation “historic” and calling on Iran to “end this war.” Yet, it remains unclear whether the US intends further strikes or considers this the final phase. Iran’s threats, retaliatory drone launches, and international condemnation suggest the situation could escalate rapidly. As the world watches anxiously, the question remains: was this a decisive blow or the start of a wider war in the Middle East?
Trump announced the operation early Sunday, calling it a “very successful military operation” and a “historic moment for the United States, Israel, and the world.” He added: “All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors... NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!” The move comes just days after the president suggested a diplomatic solution might still be possible, raising questions over the speed and scope of his military decision.
The escalation follows more than a week of coordinated Israeli strikes aimed at crippling Iran’s air defences and nuclear infrastructure. While Israel has claimed some success, officials in Jerusalem made clear they needed US firepower, specifically the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator to destroy the deeply buried Fordow facility . Trump’s decision to greenlight the strikes suggests he now sees military force as the only viable path to halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Here are the top developments:
Trump confirms US strikes with bunker busters
President Trump made a surprise announcement Saturday, stating that the US had launched a “very successful attack” on three nuclear sites in Iran. He claimed that a “full payload of BOMBS” was dropped on Fordow, the most fortified of Iran’s facilities. Fox News host Sean Hannity later said he had spoken to Trump directly, confirming that six bunker buster bombs were used at Fordow, while 30 Tomahawk missiles hit Natanz and Isfahan. The B-2 stealth bombers used for the mission are the only aircraft capable of carrying the 30,000-lb GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator.
Iran condemns US attacks on nuclear sites, citing violation of international law
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization has condemned recent attacks on its nuclear facilities in Fordoww, Natanz, and Isfahan, claiming the sites were targeted “by the enemies.” In a statement, the organization said that the attacks violate international law and declared that it will not allow the development of this “national industry” to be stopped. It added that it has begun taking necessary measures, including legal proceedings, to “defend the rights” of Iran. The organization also called on the international community to condemn what it described as “lawlessness based on the law of the jungle” and to support Iran in achieving its legitimate rights.
Netanyahu praises Trump
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded in a recorded statement released by his office at 4:41 a.m. local time (0141 GMT), praising U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions. He said, “Tonight, Trump and the US acted with a lot of strength” and added, “America has been truly unsurpassed.” Netanyahu stated that “history will record that President Trump acted to deny the most dangerous regime, the world’s most dangerous weapons.” He concluded by saying Trump’s leadership has created a pivot of history that can help lead the Middle East and beyond to a future of prosperity and peace.
The role of Israel’s prior offensive
The US strikes come after nine days of sustained Israeli bombing raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Israeli officials say their campaign severely damaged Iranian air defences and key nuclear sites, opening a narrow opportunity for the US to deliver a decisive strike. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar claimed Iran’s nuclear programme had been set back by two years. Tehran, however, continues to deny it seeks nuclear weapons and insists its programme is for peaceful purposes.
What are the bunker buster bombs?
The GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-lb conventional bomb, is designed to destroy heavily fortified targets buried deep underground. Fordow, for instance, is estimated to be buried 80 to 90 metres beneath the surface. US and Israeli officials say the bunker busters, which drill deeper with each successive blast, offer the best chance of destroying such sites. These bombs can only be deployed by B-2 stealth bombers, which were reportedly seen departing US bases earlier in the week.
Iran’s nuclear sites: What was hit
The three Iranian sites hit Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan are central to its nuclear ambitions. Fordow is deeply buried and recently ramped up uranium enrichment to 60%. Natanz, Iran’s largest enrichment facility, hosts thousands of centrifuges in underground bunkers. Isfahan, a major research centre, includes conversion facilities and three reactors. The International Atomic Energy Agency had earlier confirmed enriched uranium production at all three sites. Tehran acknowledged attacks at all locations, though claimed that the sites had been evacuated “some time ago.”
Iran vows retaliation and accuses US of ‘all-out war’
Iranian officials responded with fury to the US strikes. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei warned that American involvement would bring “irreparable damage.” President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would not halt its nuclear programme “under any circumstances.” Tehran’s retaliation has already included suicide drone attacks on Israel and warnings from Houthi allies in Yemen to resume Red Sea attacks on US vessels. Iranian officials have promised a “more devastating” response if the strikes continue.
Diplomacy collapses as Trump turns to force
The US had pursued a diplomatic track for months, with Trump twice urging Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to delay military action. However, after talks failed to produce results, Trump reversed course. Vice President JD Vance defended the decision, stating, “He is only interested in using the American military to accomplish the American people’s goals.” The shift from diplomacy to airstrikes marks a return to Trump’s hardline stance, consistent with his withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018.
Domestic reaction: Republicans cheer, critics warn
The strikes received strong backing from Republican lawmakers. Senator Lindsey Graham praised the decision, calling it “well done,” while Senator John Cornyn labelled it “courageous.” However, some conservatives were uneasy. Congressman Thomas Massie said, “This is not Constitutional,” citing Trump’s promise to avoid endless wars. Trump has also faced criticism from voices within the MAGA base who argue the move contradicts his America First pledge. But others, including Democratic Senator John Fetterman, backed the strikes, calling Iran a global threat.
Regional reaction: Allies divided on escalation
The strikes have also stirred regional tensions. Saudi Arabia condemned what it called “blatant Israeli aggressions” and warned of regional destabilisation. Egypt rejected Israel’s campaign and urged for an immediate ceasefire. Both countries, having recently mended ties with Iran, now face a diplomatic balancing act. Meanwhile, European diplomats urged Iran to return to nuclear talks. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation convened an emergency session in Istanbul to address the growing crisis.
Bunker busters raise fears of nuclear contamination
One of the biggest concerns is the potential release of nuclear material. Fordow’s underground enrichment of uranium to 60% raises the risk that a direct hit by a GBU-57 could lead to contamination. The Arms Control Association condemned the attacks, calling them “an irresponsible departure from diplomacy.” The group warned that military action may push Iran to view nuclear weapons as essential for deterrence, reducing prospects for any future agreement.
What next: a turning point or the beginning?
Trump’s social media posts struck a triumphant note, declaring the operation “historic” and calling on Iran to “end this war.” Yet, it remains unclear whether the US intends further strikes or considers this the final phase. Iran’s threats, retaliatory drone launches, and international condemnation suggest the situation could escalate rapidly. As the world watches anxiously, the question remains: was this a decisive blow or the start of a wider war in the Middle East?
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