U.S. Bombs Iranian Nuclear Sites Amid Escalating Conflict

On June 22, 2025, the United States launched a series of airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. The strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, targeted the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, Natanz Nuclear Facility, and a site near Isfahan, all of which are central to Iran's nuclear program.

Strategic Targets and Military Execution

The operation was carried out by B-2 stealth bombers, capable of delivering the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-pound "bunker buster" designed to destroy deeply buried targets like Fordow, which is located beneath a mountain. According to U.S. officials, the mission was completed without American casualties, and all aircraft safely exited Iranian airspace.

President Donald J. Trump (R) declared the mission a success, stating, "A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!"

"I will be giving an Address to the Nation at 10:00 P.M., at the White House, regarding our very successful military operation in Iran," President Trump added. "This is an HISTORIC MOMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ISRAEL, AND THE WORLD. IRAN MUST NOW AGREE TO END THIS WAR. THANK YOU!"

Context and Escalation

The strikes followed more than a week of intensifying hostilities between Israel and Iran, which began with Israeli attacks on Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. Iran responded with missile barrages, prompting fears of a broader regional war.

Trump's decision to intervene came after days of deliberation and mounting pressure from Israeli officials. While initially hesitant, the president ultimately authorized the strikes, citing the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

International and Domestic Reactions

The move has sparked a wave of reactions. Supporters, including some Republican lawmakers and Israeli officials, praised the strikes as a necessary step to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions. Critics, however, questioned the legality and constitutionality of the action, with some members of Congress arguing that the president acted without proper authorization.

Iran has vowed to retaliate, and military analysts warn of a potential "escalatory spiral" that could draw in other regional actors and U.S. forces stationed abroad.

This development marks a turning point in U.S. involvement in the Middle East and has the potential to ignite a new larger Gulf War.