Iran strikes back after U.S. bombs nuclear sites

In a dramatic escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict, the United States launched a large-scale airstrike June 21, targeting Iran's key nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Dubbed "Operation Midnight Hammer," the mission involved seven B-2 Spirit bombers, over 125 aircraft, and more than 75 precision-guided munitions, including 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The Pentagon described the operation as the largest B-2 strike in U.S. history, resulting in "extremely severe damage and destruction" to the targeted sites. 

President Donald Trump hailed the strikes as a "spectacular military success," asserting that Iran's nuclear ambitions had been "obliterated." He warned Tehran against retaliation, stating that the U.S. would respond with greater force if provoked. 

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. action as a "grave violation" of international law and the UN Charter, accusing Washington of "blowing up diplomacy." He emphasized that Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty and people. 

In retaliation, Iran launched a barrage of missiles into Israel, targeting cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa. The attacks resulted in at least 63 injuries and significant structural damage. 

The U.S. maintains that its objective is not regime change but to neutralize threats posed by Iran's nuclear program. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the operation was a focused effort to address these threats and not an open-ended military campaign. 

As tensions continue to rise, the global community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that averts further escalation and promotes stability in the region.

Sources: The New York Times, CNN, The Times of Israel, cbsnews.com, abcnews.go.com , washingtonpost.com, reuters.com