Did the US Bomb Iran? Looking at Recent News

In a stunning turn of events, President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States launched bombing attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States, as the Middle East veers closer to a broader regional conflict. 

This article examines the details of the strikes, international reactions, and the potential consequences moving forward.

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What Did the US Bomb and How? 

The airstrikes targeted three critical Iranian nuclear sites. The Fordo facility, a deeply buried uranium enrichment plant, was one of the primary targets. According to defense analysts, only the U.S.'s Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bomb is capable of reaching Fordo’s depth. This 30,000-pound bunker buster can penetrate 18 meters of concrete or 61 meters of earth.

Alongside Fordo, the Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities were also struck. While the full extent of the damage remains unclear, Iranian officials confirmed the attacks but denied any significant losses, claiming most materials had already been evacuated.

The Immediate Impact of the Strikes 

Despite the destructive potential of the bombs used, radiation levels in the surrounding areas remain stable according to the IAEA and Saudi Arabia. Iran's Atomic Energy Organization labeled the strikes a “barbaric violation” of international law. President Trump insisted that the facilities had been "completely and totally obliterated," while other experts, including former U.S. officials, struck a more cautious tone, saying the long-term impact remains to be seen.

Iran's Response and Military Options 

Iran now faces a pivotal decision: how to respond. BBC analysts suggest three possible strategic paths:

• Do nothing and preserve stability while risking domestic perception of weakness.

• Launch immediate retaliation using ballistic missiles or drone swarms, particularly targeting U.S. military bases.

• Delay retaliation for a more calculated response when U.S. defenses may be more relaxed.

Shortly after the U.S. strikes, Iran did fire missiles into Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa, injuring at least 16 people. While these attacks appear retaliatory, Tehran has not yet announced a full-scale military response.

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Trump’s Message and U.S. Political Reactions 

President Trump appeared on national television flanked by Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump warned that unless Iran entered negotiations, future strikes would be "far greater."

Republican reactions were mixed. While senators like Ted Cruz praised the move, others, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, argued, "This is not our fight." Democratic leaders including Hakeem Jeffries and Bernie Sanders condemned the strikes, warning of unconstitutional action and the risk of a broader Middle East war.

How the World is Reacting 

Global leaders were quick to respond. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer supported the U.S. decision, citing a "grave threat" from Iran. The UN and EU called for de-escalation, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres labeling the strikes a "dangerous escalation." Oman, a recent host of US-Iran talks, condemned the attack and urged restraint.

How Did This Start? 

The latest conflict traces back to June 13, when Israel launched surprise attacks on multiple Iranian facilities, claiming Iran’s nuclear program was nearing weaponization. In return, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones. The ongoing exchange has grown into a week-long air war, exacerbated by Trump’s ultimatum to Iran: enter talks within two weeks or face consequences. The timeline, however, was shortened dramatically.

Conclusion 

Whether or not the US bombing of Iran will trigger a full-scale war remains to be seen. What is clear is that this marks a major escalation in U.S.-Iran relations and the broader Middle East power struggle. As international leaders scramble to de-escalate, the world watches anxiously for Iran’s next move.

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FAQs

1. Did the US officially declare war on Iran? 

No. The strikes were carried out under presidential authority without a formal declaration of war by Congress.

2. What weapons did the US use to bomb Iran? 

The US reportedly used the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), capable of destroying deep underground facilities.

3. Did Iran retaliate? 

Yes. Iran launched missiles at Israeli cities shortly after the U.S. strikes, injuring several civilians.

4. Are the nuclear sites completely destroyed? 

The extent of the damage is still being assessed. Iran claims minimal losses, while Trump insists they were "obliterated."

5. What’s next? 

Iran may choose immediate retaliation, delay its response, or re-enter nuclear negotiations. The situation remains volatile.