US President Donald Trump has taken a dramatic step in the conflict between Iran and Israel, ordering airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. Trump described the operation as a “spectacular success” and expressed hope that it would lead to a more lasting peace in the region.
In a televised address to the nation, Trump warned Iran that if it did not abandon its nuclear program, it would face future attacks that would be “far worse and a lot easier.” He stated, “There are many targets left,” and the US would go after them with “speed, precision, and skill.” The strikes targeted the Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan nuclear sites, with Fordow being the primary target.
The international community has reacted strongly to the US strikes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the operation, saying it was “in full coordination with Israel.” He added, “Congratulations, President Trump. Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history.”
In contrast, UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of a “spiral of chaos” that could result from the American decision to escalate the conflict. He emphasized that the Middle East was already “on edge” and urged diplomacy to prevent further escalation. “This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security… There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace,” Guterres said.
Other world leaders have also condemned the US action. China’s state-run CGTN questioned whether the US is repeating “its Iraq mistake in Iran,” calling the strikes a “dangerous turning point.” New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters urged diplomacy, saying, “Ongoing military action in the Middle East is extremely worrying, and it is critical further escalation is avoided.”
The US military had earlier sent American B-2 stealth bombers to the US island territory of Guam in the Pacific Ocean, US media report.
The large jets are considered to be the only aircraft capable of carrying weapons that can strike Iran’s most secure nuclear facility, which is buried deep underground below a mountain.
The US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites have significant implications for the region and the world. If Iran retaliates, the US may feel compelled to respond, leading to further escalation. Trump’s decision to launch airstrikes has been criticized by some within his own party, and the president’s ability to manage the situation will be closely watched.
As the situation unfolds, the world waits with bated breath to see how Iran will respond to the attacks on its nuclear sites. Will the US strikes force Iran to make greater concessions at the negotiating table, or will they lead to further conflict? Only time will tell.