Iran-Israel Conflict: The intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel has now drawn direct American involvement, marking a significant escalation with global implications. On Sunday, under orders from US President Donald Trump, the US military launched a coordinated and precision-guided airstrike targeting three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. The mission, carried out under the codename “Operation Midnight Hammer,” involved the deployment of B-2 stealth bombers and bunker-busting GBU-57 MOP bombs. While the US claims the operation inflicted substantial damage on Iran’s nuclear program, Iranian authorities have dismissed the impact, insisting there were no significant losses. Regardless, the strike has triggered heightened anxiety and tension across the Middle East.
Highly Classified Operation Took the World by Surprise
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Kane, stated that the operation was meticulously planned over several months and executed under the command of General Eric Kurilla from the US Central Command. Kane emphasized that the strike demonstrated America’s ability to project power with precision, speed, and coordination across multiple global theaters. The operation remained top secret, with only a handful of senior officials in Washington aware of its scope and timing.
Trump Declares: ‘Now Is the Time for Peace’
Following the attack, President Trump took to his Truth Social account, posting:
“We’ve carried out a highly successful operation against Iran’s nuclear facilities. The entire payload was dropped on Fordo. All aircraft have returned safely. Congratulations to our great American warriors. No other military could have done this. Now is the time for peace.” This marks Trump's most assertive military decision since the conflict between Iran and Israel escalated earlier this month.
Strategic Blow to Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted that President Trump has long maintained that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. Hegseth stated,
“For years, presidents have talked about halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. President Trump has finally taken decisive action to make that a reality.”
According to Hegseth, the primary goal was to dismantle infrastructure critical to Iran’s weapons-grade uranium production without targeting civilians or conventional military assets.
Record-Setting B-2 Bomber Mission
The operation involved the longest B-2 stealth bomber mission since 2001, departing from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. For the first time in active combat, the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (GBU-57 MOP)—designed to neutralize deeply buried nuclear sites—was deployed. This operation showcased the strategic reach and readiness of US forces to respond swiftly and with precision.
Iran Responds: Calls Attack ‘Violation of International Law’
In a stern reaction, Iran labeled the strike as a serious breach of international law, asserting its right to self-defense. Tehran’s state-run media acknowledged the attack but downplayed its effectiveness, claiming only minimal damage occurred at the sites.
What Lies Ahead: A Widening Crisis?
Analysts warn that the strike could destabilize West Asia further. With Iran and Israel already at the brink of a full-scale war, direct US military intervention risks broadening the conflict into a regional—or potentially global—crisis. Experts believe that if Iran retaliates forcefully, escalation into an extended and multifront war could become inevitable.
