U.S. Launches Airstrikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities in 'Operation Midnight Hammer'

In a significant escalation of Middle East tensions, the United States launched a series of airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—on June 22, 2025, under the codename "Operation Midnight Hammer." The operation aimed to disable Iran's nuclear capabilities and involved advanced military tactics and weaponry.

The mission commenced at approximately 2:30 a.m. Iran Standard Time, with seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers flying non-stop from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. These aircraft deployed 14 GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bombs, marking the first combat use of these "bunker buster" munitions designed to penetrate deep into fortified structures. Additionally, U.S. Navy submarines launched 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles targeting the same sites. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the operation as "a bold and brilliant plan," emphasizing that all munitions hit their intended targets with the desired effect. (Source - Aftenposten)

President Donald Trump announced the operation, stating that the targeted facilities were "completely and totally obliterated." He warned of further actions if Iran did not seek peace, underscoring the U.S. commitment to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. (Source - Time)

Iranian officials condemned the strikes as a "reckless violation of the UN Charter and international law." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty and people. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran labeled the attacks as "a barbaric act" and indicated plans to seek justice in international courts while continuing its nuclear program. (Source - Wikipedia)

International reactions were mixed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the U.S. action, calling it a "historic turning point" and stating that President Trump prevented the most dangerous regime from obtaining the most dangerous weapon. In contrast, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described the strikes as a "dangerous escalation" and called for diplomacy. European leaders, including those from the European Commission, France, and the U.K., reiterated opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons but emphasized negotiation over military action. (Source - Time)

The airstrikes have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential retaliatory actions from Iran or its allied proxy groups. The proximity of these facilities to populated areas also raises concerns about potential harm to civilians and infrastructure. Additionally, the escalation may impact global oil prices and energy security, given Iran's role as a major oil producer.

This operation marks a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in the Middle East, following Israel's earlier attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. The use of MOP bombs in combat is unprecedented, highlighting the seriousness of the U.S. intent to disable Iran's nuclear capabilities.

The strikes have been condemned by Iran as violations of international law and the UN Charter. The operation was conducted without prior congressional approval, leading to debates about the constitutional authority of the President to engage in military actions without legislative consent.

The U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities represent a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics, with far-reaching implications for regional stability, international law, and global security. The international community remains watchful, urging restraint and a return to diplomatic negotiations to prevent further escalation.