U.S. completes strikes on Iran nuclear sites, Trump says

Published: Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 12:04 am

U.S. Launches Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites, Trump Announces

In a significant escalation of tensions, the United States, in conjunction with Israel, has launched military strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. President Donald Trump announced the attacks on Saturday via social media, stating that the strikes targeted the Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear facilities. Trump indicated the attacks were successful and that all U.S. aircraft had safely returned. He also stated he would address the nation later that day.

This marks the first direct military involvement by the U.S. in the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The strikes included a reported attack on the heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site, which is located deep underground. The U.S. utilized specialized "bunker buster" bombs, the GBU-57 MOP, transported by B-2 stealth bombers, to carry out the attack.

The decision to strike comes despite Trump's previous statements about avoiding further Middle East entanglements. However, he has consistently maintained that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a priority. Trump has previously sought to negotiate a new nuclear deal with Iran, but in recent days, he has adopted a more aggressive stance, calling for Iran's "unconditional surrender" and threatening Iranian leadership.

The strikes follow a period of heightened conflict, with dozens of Israeli air strikes against Iran earlier this month. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks on Israel. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, with Israel reporting deaths and injuries. Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, while Israel views it as an existential threat. U.S. intelligence has previously assessed that Iran suspended its nuclear weapons program in 2003, a position contradicted by Trump.

BNN's Perspective:

The situation is deeply concerning. While preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons is a shared goal, this military action significantly raises the stakes in an already volatile region. A measured approach, prioritizing diplomacy and de-escalation, is crucial to avoid further loss of life and a wider conflict.

Keywords: U.S. military strikes, Iran, nuclear sites, Fordow, Natanz, Esfahan, Donald Trump, Israel, conflict, GBU-57 MOP, B-2 stealth bomber, nuclear weapons, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Middle East, military action, diplomacy, de-escalation

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