What Did the US Target in Iran?
President Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday that the United States had launched airstrikes that “totally obliterated” Iran’s main nuclear sites, marking a major escalation in the Middle East conflict. In a national address from the White House, Trump stated, “Tonight, I can report to the world that the strikes were a spectacular military success.” The attacks specifically targeted Iran’s underground uranium enrichment facility at Fordo, as well as nuclear sites in Natanz and Isfahan.
“Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely obliterated. Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace,” said Trump. These remarks came as the US joined Israel in its ongoing military campaign against Tehran, raising fears of a wider regional war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the US strikes, saying that “the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history.”
Despite the strikes, Iran reported “no signs of contamination,” and Saudi regulators confirmed that “no radioactive effects were detected” in the Gulf. Iranian media also acknowledged the strikes on Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan.
How Was the Operation Carried Out?
The attack was executed using B-2 stealth bombers armed with “bunker buster bombs” and submarine-launched Tomahawk cruise missiles. According to reports, the decision came earlier than anticipated, with Trump initially suggesting on Thursday that a decision would come “within two weeks.” Instead, he proceeded with the operation on Sunday.
Joined by Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump warned that more action could follow. “Remember, there are many targets left,” he said. While he previously called Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei an “easy target,” Trump did not mention regime change in his address.
Trump later posted on Truth Social, “A full payload of BOMBS” was dropped on Fordo, adding, “All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors.”
What’s the Global and Domestic Response?
The Iranian government responded with sharp criticism. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US of deciding to “blow up” diplomacy, saying, “There is no red line that they have not crossed.” Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reported launching “suicide drones” at “strategic targets” across Israel.
Domestically, Trump’s move has created division. His own MAGA base has shown signs of fracture, with several Republican voices warning against another foreign conflict. Trump’s 2016 campaign had strongly leaned on promises to end US involvement in Middle East wars.
Democrats, too, have reacted. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries said the president risked “entanglement in a potentially disastrous war in the Middle East.” Others accused Trump of bypassing Congress to authorize the strikes.
By Lucky Anyanje
