In a dramatic display of military coordination and strategic force projection, the United States launched a targeted strike against Iran during the night between June 21 and 22.
The operation, reportedly ordered by former President Donald Trump, focused on neutralizing critical elements of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure through a meticulously planned, four-phase attack.
Phase One: Mobilization from the Pacific
The operation commenced with the deployment of B-2 Spirit stealth bombers from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. These long-range aircraft, capable of carrying precision-guided munitions, were pre-positioned to ensure both tactical surprise and operational reach. U.S. Air Force refueling tankers supported the mission, enabling the bombers to reach Middle Eastern airspace without the need for forward bases in the region.
Phase Two: Tomahawk Missile Barrage
Simultaneously, U.S. Navy assets in the Persian Gulf and eastern Mediterranean launched a coordinated salvo of Tomahawk cruise missiles. The targets included key nuclear research and development facilities near Natanz and Isfahan.
These missiles, known for their high precision and long range, were used to disable air defenses and degrade infrastructure thought to be involved in uranium enrichment and advanced centrifuge assembly.
Phase Three: Deep-Penetration Strike on Fordow
The most technically challenging component of the operation targeted the heavily fortified Fordow uranium enrichment facility. Nestled within a mountain near Qom, the site was struck using the Massive Ordnance Penetrator, or GBU-57. Designed to penetrate deep into reinforced bunkers, this 30,000-pound bomb was likely delivered by a B-2 bomber.
The intent was to render the facility inoperable without causing significant civilian casualties or radioactive leaks.
Phase Four: Strategic Withdrawal
Following the attack, all aerial assets returned to their points of origin. The U.S. Central Command monitored Iranian military responses throughout the operation and reported minimal resistance, though regional defense systems were placed on high alert.
U.S. officials described the mission as “successful in achieving its objectives,” while stressing it was not intended as a declaration of war but as a deterrent against further nuclear proliferation.
Global Repercussions and Diplomatic Fallout
The international community has responded with a mix of concern and calls for restraint. European Union representatives urged both Tehran and Washington to return to diplomatic negotiations, while Russia and China condemned the strike as a violation of international norms.
Within Iran, the government vowed retaliation and accused the U.S. of an unprovoked act of aggression, further escalating tensions across the region.
Although no official casualties have been confirmed, satellite imagery and local reports suggest significant structural damage to all three nuclear sites.
The long-term impact of the operation on Iran's nuclear ambitions remains uncertain, but the strike marks a turning point in U.S.–Iran relations and a bold assertion of preemptive military policy under the Trump administration.
.jpg)
.jpg)
0 Comments