International News: Fordow, Iran’s underground uranium enrichment site buried deep within a mountain, was one of the prime targets. Satellite images post-strike suggest structural damage to the centrifuge halls. U.S. sources claim the attack has “severely compromised” enrichment capabilities. Independent verification is underway, but early signs indicate a significant operational disruption. Natanz, often called the "heart of Iran’s nuclear program," suffered what Pentagon insiders describe as a "devastating precision strike." Several cascading explosions were reportedly triggered, causing secondary fires in adjacent storage depots. Iranian state TV initially denied casualties but later acknowledged “minor infrastructural damage,” contradicting Western intelligence reports.
Isfahan: Tactical Strike on Research Core
The strike on Isfahan targeted what officials say was a research and development hub for weaponization processes. This is particularly critical since this site was believed to house sensitive blueprints and testing infrastructure. Cyber-components of the operation reportedly also neutralized communication links and backup power to the site for several hours.
Iran Responds: “This Won’t Kill Our Resolve”
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei issued a bold statement after the attack, declaring, “Nuclear resistance is our right. The American assault is illegal and temporary.” The Iranian Revolutionary Guard called the strikes an “act of war,” vowing retaliation “at the time and place of our choosing.” Despite the damage, Iran claims its program will continue.
Global Reaction: UN Silent, Israel Applauds
While the UN Security Council remains divided, Israel has hailed the U.S. operation as a “strategic breakthrough.” European powers expressed concern over escalation but subtly hinted that Tehran had crossed several red lines. China and Russia, Iran’s key allies, called for restraint and demanded evidence behind U.S. claims.
Expert Analysis: “Iran’s Timeline Set Back by Years”
According to former IAEA inspector David Albright, the strike could set back Iran’s nuclear breakout capacity by “up to three years—if not more.” He emphasized the blow to Iran’s high-speed centrifuge inventory and rare materials stockpile, which are now believed to be “either destroyed or inaccessible.” Though America’s strike has dealt a powerful blow, experts caution against assuming Iran’s nuclear ambition has been neutralized for good. History shows Tehran’s resilience and adaptability. The question now: how will Iran rebuild—and how soon?
