US Launches Targeted Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities
In a bold military move, US forces struck key Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday, focusing on locations in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. This marks the first time since 1979 that the United States has directly attacked facilities within Iran’s borders.
Trump and Top Officials Monitor Operations in the Situation Room
The White House released rare images capturing President Donald Trump and senior officials scrutinizing the strike operations in the Situation Room. Trump, notably wearing his iconic Make America Great Again cap, monitored the developments alongside an assembly of prominent leaders.
- Vice President JD Vance
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio
- Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth
- Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine
- White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
- CIA Director John Ratcliffe
Trump Declares Strikes a Military Triumph
Announcing the strikes on social media before delivering a televised address from the Oval Office, President Trump proclaimed the operation a "spectacular military success." He asserted that Iran’s critical nuclear enrichment capabilities had been "completely and totally obliterated."
Describing Iran as the "bully of the Middle East," Trump issued a stark warning: the US sought peace, but if Iran resisted, future attacks would be more intense and precise, capable of disabling targets within minutes.
"There will be either peace or there will be tragedy for Iran far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days," Trump said, emphasizing that many targets remain.
Escalating Conflict Sparks Regional Tensions
The US strikes followed an Israeli operation, dubbed "Operation Rising Lion," aimed at crippling Iran's military and nuclear infrastructure amid fears Tehran was nearing nuclear weapon capabilities. The conflict has so far claimed over 600 lives in Iran, according to human rights groups, while Iranian retaliatory strikes involving missile and drone attacks have killed at least 24 in Israel.
The Stakes Ahead
With both sides intensifying military actions, the region faces an uncertain future. The US has clearly indicated readiness to escalate precision strikes, positioning itself to respond swiftly if diplomacy falters.
All images credit: Official White House photographs released alongside the announcement.
