In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, President Donald Trump has unveiled a covert operation codenamed “Night Hammer,” targeting three key Iranian nuclear facilities: Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. The plan, meticulously prepared in secrecy over several days, marks the first direct U.S. military action against Iran, joining Israel’s ongoing campaign to curb Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. Announced on June 21, 2025, the strikes have sent shockwaves through the international community, with Trump claiming the facilities were “completely and totally obliterated.” However, the full extent of the damage remains under scrutiny, and Iran vowing retaliation, the region braces for unpredictable consequences.
The operation involved over 125 U.S. military aircraft, including seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which deployed 14 GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators, or “bunker-buster” bombs, on the heavily fortified Fordo site, buried deep beneath a mountain. Two dozen Tomahawk missiles were launched from a submarine targeted Isfahan facility, while Natanz was also hit. Pentagon officials described the mission as the largest B-2 strike in U.S. history, emphasizing its precision and secrecy. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reported “extremely severe damage” to the sites, though initial assessments suggest Iran may have evacuated key materials, potentially mitigating the strikes’ impact. Satellite imagery shows craters at Fordo, but experts caution that Iran’s nuclear program may not be fully crippled.
Trump’s decision followed weeks of failed diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, which he abandoned in 2016. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, rejected a U.S. ultimatum to halt uranium enrichment, prompting Trump to act. The White House framed the strikes as a necessary step to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, with Trump warning Tehran of “far greater attacks” if it does not seek peace. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded the operation, calling it a historic blow to Iran’s nuclear threat. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack as a “barbaric violation” of international law, signaling a collapse of diplomatic avenues.
The strikes have ignited fierce debate in Washington. Congressional Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, praised Trump’s resolve, while Democrats, such as Representative Jim Himes, criticized the lack of congressional approval, citing constitutional concerns. Public opinion remains divided, with a recent poll showing 45% of Americans opposing the strikes and 30% undecided. Fears of escalation loom large, as Iran launched missiles at Israel and a U.S. base in Qatar, though no casualties were reported. Tehran’s threats to target U.S. regional bases or disrupt the Strait of Hormuz raise the specter of a wider conflict.
As the world awaits Iran’s next move, Trump’s gamble carries immense risks. While the administration insists it seeks no broader war, Trump’s mention of potential “regime change” has heightened tensions. The Middle East stands at a crossroads, with the “Night Hammer” strikes promising not only military but also geopolitical repercussions that could reshape the region for years to come.
