US Provided Warning to Iran Prior to Airstrikes on Nuclear Facilities
In a rare disclosure, the United States reportedly alerted Iran ahead of launching airstrikes on three of its nuclear sites. Through undisclosed back-channel communications, Washington conveyed that the operation was limited in scope and that no additional attacks were planned at this time.
Signals Toward Diplomatic Engagement Persist
Experts interpret this pre-strike notification as a deliberate signal from the US indicating a continued interest in pursuing diplomatic avenues with Tehran. Despite the military action, officials appear keen to leave the door open for dialogue with the Iranian government.
Future Actions Hinged on Iran's Response
However, sources close to the administration have acknowledged that any further military measures against Iran will largely depend on Tehran’s reaction to these recent strikes. Whether Iran retaliates or escalates tensions remains a critical factor in shaping Washington’s next steps.
Uncertainty Looms Over Israel’s Role in Ongoing Strikes
The three targeted sites—Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz—are key elements of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Although Israel has aggressively pursued its objective to dismantle Iran’s nuclear ambitions, its future airstrikes remain uncertain following the US involvement.
Israeli officials maintain that destroying Iran’s nuclear program is their primary goal, while some voices within Israel have raised the possibility of aiming to destabilize the Iranian regime altogether. The expectation of Iranian retaliation has always been prominent, and Israel anticipated the US’s intervention to help deliver a significant blow.
“The entire operation has been premised on the US joining at some stage,” an Israeli official commented previously, underscoring the strategic partnership behind the strikes.
Iran’s Response: Defiance and Resolve
Following the strikes, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation condemned the attacks but reaffirmed its commitment to advancing its nuclear program, describing it as a vital national cause powered by the sacrifices of “nuclear martyrs.”
State media confirmed the assault on the Fordow facility and reported that the Isfahan and Natanz sites were also targeted in the operation.
The Iranian statement sent a clear message that, despite setbacks, Tehran is determined not to halt its nuclear development efforts, framing the program as emblematic of national pride and resilience.
