In a significant escalation of tensions, US President Donald Trump has confirmed that American airforces have conducted strikes on three nuclear facilities in Iran, indicating a serious development in the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel.
During a televised address, Trump described the targets as critical, particularly the Fordo site, known for uranium enrichment and concealed within a mountain. He emphasized that additional targets remain if peace is not swiftly achieved. Israeli officials maintained they were closely coordinating with the US on this mission.
Prior to the strikes, the US communicated to Iran through diplomatic means, asserting that no further military actions were planned beyond this instance. However, Iranian officials have threatened retaliation, suggesting potential attacks on US military installations in the region.
The backdrop to this military action includes Israel’s earlier assault on Iranian installations on June 13, with Prime Minister Netanyahu expressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear capabilities. While Iran claims its nuclear pursuits are for peaceful purposes, it launched counterattacks on Israel with drones and rockets following the strikes.
Amidst the backdrop of a previously ongoing dialogue about Iran’s nuclear program, the US has revealed its targets were the Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan facilities. The Fordo site, buried deep underground, required advanced munitions for penetration, specifically the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator.
While initial reports suggest limited damage due to prior evacuations of materials, conclusions about the operational impact of these strikes remain uncertain.
Source: www.bbc.com
