Trump Calls It a “Spectacular Success”
Announcing the airstrikes, US President Donald Trump said: “Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated. Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace” or face more devastating attacks.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth added: “The president authorised a precision operation to neutralise the threats to our national interests posed by the Iranian nuclear programme.”
Despite the aggressive move, the Pentagon said the US was not seeking full-scale war with Iran.
Iran Threatens Retaliation, Closes Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded strongly: “There would be no return to diplomacy until it had retaliated.”
Iran’s Parliament has approved a closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway through which 20% of the world’s oil passes. The final decision rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
“The US showed they have no respect for international law. They only understand the language of threat and force,” Araghchi said in Istanbul, calling for the UN Security Council to condemn the attack.
Gulf States on Alert, Europe Calls for Restraint
Countries across the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain, raised their security levels. Bahrain warned drivers to avoid main roads, while Kuwait opened emergency shelters. Nuclear safety agencies in the UAE and Saudi Arabia reported no signs of radiation.
In Europe, Britain, France, and Germany jointly said: “We have consistently been clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon and can no longer pose a threat to regional security.”
They urged Iran to return to talks, offering to help find a solution.
“We stand ready to contribute to that goal in coordination with all parties.”
Russia and China Condemn Strikes, Israel Praises Action
Russia and China issued strong condemnations of the US strikes.
But Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said: “Trump’s decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the US will change history.”
Shortly after the US airstrikes, Iran fired more missiles at Israel, injuring many in Tel Aviv and destroying buildings. However, Iran has not yet attacked US military bases or tried to block oil exports completely, signs it may be trying to avoid total war.
Global Watch: IAEA, DHS React
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said no rise in radiation had been detected. Its head, Rafael Mariano Grossi, called an emergency meeting of the board.
A US Department of Homeland Security alert warned of a “heightened threat environment” within the country following the strikes.
While satellite images showed damage above Fordo and nearby entrances, it is unclear how much of the underground site was hit. Iran reportedly moved some enriched uranium out before the bombing.
Inputs from agencies
