Following the direct involvement of the United States in the conflict, the long-standing tension between Israel and Iran has escalated with extreme seriousness. Backing Israel, the U.S. launched targeted airstrikes on three key nuclear facilities in Iran, marking a significant military development in the region.
President Donald Trump confirmed that U.S. bombers conducted strikes on Iran’s Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan nuclear sites, returning safely after the mission.“Congratulations to our brave American forces. The time for peace is now,” Trump stated.
He is expected to address the nation on Sunday to clarify whether the U.S. will conduct further strikes on Iranian territory.
Damage Assessment Pending
No official report has been released regarding the extent of the damage. However, Israel had long urged the United States to intervene, citing its limited ability to neutralize Iran’s deeply buried nuclear infrastructure alone.
These underground facilities are considered highly fortified, and only the United States possesses munitions capable of penetrating such structures.
Reports suggest that the U.S. may have used the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator—a 14-ton “bunker-buster” bomb designed to destroy deep subterranean facilities. Official confirmation of the specific weapon used is still pending.
Targets: Three Strategic Iranian Nuclear Sites
Natanz
Located about 250 kilometers south of Tehran, Natanz is Iran’s main uranium enrichment site. In recent days, Israel is believed to have launched multiple attacks on this facility.
Natanz plays a central role in Iran’s nuclear program, focusing on uranium conversion and centrifuge development. CNN reports that the site includes six surface buildings and three underground structures. According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), the underground chambers can hold up to 50,000 centrifuges.
The IAEA confirmed enrichment levels of up to 60% at Natanz. For comparison, weapons-grade uranium requires enrichment of 90%.
Fordow
The Fordow facility is located near the city of Qom and lies beneath a mountain, making it one of the most secure sites in Iran. According to CNN, the facility is situated between 262 and 295 feet underground.
This site reportedly houses approximately 2,700 centrifuges and also enriches uranium to 60% purity. Experts believe that only advanced bunker-busting munitions, like those held by the U.S., can destroy the facility.
Isfahan
Situated in central Iran, Isfahan is the country’s largest nuclear research center. Established in 1984 with assistance from China, it serves as the core of Iran’s nuclear development.
CNN reports that Isfahan includes three Chinese-built research reactors, a conversion facility, a fuel production plant, a zirconium cladding plant, and multiple laboratories. Over 3,000 nuclear scientists are employed at the site.
Risk of Regional Escalation Grows
Iran has not yet issued an official response. However, it had previously warned that any military action by the U.S. would result in retaliation against American military bases in the region.
With Washington now openly engaged, analysts fear a broader regional conflict may unfold. International observers are monitoring the situation closely as geopolitical tensions rise across the Middle East.
