US Conducts Unprecedented 37-Hour Aerial Strike on Iran's Nuclear Facilities
In a bold and meticulously planned operation, US B-2 Spirit stealth bombers launched a 37-hour non-stop mission from Missouri, targeting critical Iranian nuclear sites. Executed with multiple mid-air refuelings, this strike focused on the heavily defended facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.
Precision Strikes on Key Nuclear Installations
The attack marked one of the most direct military actions by the US against Iran in recent years. The Fordow site, known for its heavily fortified underground infrastructure, was hit with six bunker-buster bombs, effectively neutralizing the facility. Meanwhile, Natanz and Esfahan were targeted with approximately 30 Tomahawk missiles aimed at crippling Iran's nuclear capabilities.
President Donald Trump described the operation as a "very successful attack," emphasizing the significance of disabling Iran's nuclear program. "Fordow is gone," he stated, warning Iran to pursue peace or face further strikes.
Strategic Deployment and Military Coordination
Prior to the strike, B-2 bombers were relocated to Guam, enhancing operational reach and flexibility. These aircraft are capable of carrying the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, designed specifically to destroy buried and hardened targets like those found at Fordow.
The Pentagon confirmed the use of these advanced munitions as part of the combined weapons deployment. This development follows escalating tensions between Iran and the US, alongside increasing hostilities involving Israel.
Reactions and Aftermath
An Iranian official acknowledged damage to the Fordow facility due to "enemy airstrikes." This attack followed several recent covert operations reportedly carried out against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, with Israel previously executing sabotage missions but lacking the firepower to penetrate Fordow’s defenses.
President Trump lauded the mission's success, affirming that all US aircraft returned safely. He hinted at an upcoming Oval Office address to elaborate on the situation.
Israel confirmed close coordination with the US, including direct communication between Trump and the Israeli Prime Minister. The strike escalates a fierce conflict wherein over 400 casualties have been reported in Iran, and retaliatory missile attacks have resulted in numerous injuries and deaths in Israel.
The Bigger Picture: Regional Tensions Amplify
This military action underscores heightened tensions stemming from Iran’s advancing nuclear ambitions, which Israel claims places the region at grave risk. The escalating violence between Israel and Iran has triggered the deadliest confrontation in years, with both sides suffering significant losses.
With Iran's nuclear facilities under sustained pressure, global attention remains fixed on diplomatic avenues and the possibility of further military engagement.
Summary of the Operation
- Duration: 37 hours nonstop flight mission
- Targets: Fordow, Natanz, Esfahan nuclear sites
- Armaments: 6 bunker-buster bombs (Fordow), ~30 Tomahawk missiles (other sites)
- Deployment: B-2 bombers repositioned to Guam beforehand
- Casualties and Damage: Significant damage confirmed at Fordow, escalating casualties reported in regional conflicts
