Operation Midnight Hammer: U.S. Strikes Inflict Severe Damage on Iran’s Nuclear Sites
Published on June 22, 2025 | Category: World News |
U.S. Launches Precision Strikes on Three Iranian Nuclear Facilities
In a major escalation of the Iran–Israel conflict, the United States launched a significant airstrike operation known as **Operation Midnight Hammer** on the night of June 21–22, targeting Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites at **Fordow**, **Natanz**, and **Isfahan**. According to General Dan Caine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the strikes caused “extremely severe damage” at all three locations :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
B-2 Bombers and Bunker-Busters: A High-Stakes Strategy
The operation involved seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers flying nonstop from Whiteman Air Force Base, each carrying powerful GBU-57A/B ‘Massive Ordnance Penetrator’ bombs, marking the first combat use of the 30,000‑pound bunker-buster munitions :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Additionally, over two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles were launched from submarines to strike the Isfahan site :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
Mountain-Hardened Fordow Center Hit Hard
Satellite images from Maxar Technologies display dramatic crater damage at the Fordow uranium enrichment facility—deeply embedded within a mountain—highlighting the effectiveness of the bunker-buster assault :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}. The nuclear and supporting infrastructure at Natanz and Isfahan also suffered substantial structural damage, according to military assessments :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
U.S. Statement: Not Seeking Regime Change
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Trump emphasized the strikes targeted Iran’s nuclear capability—not its government. Hegseth described the operation as a “bold and brilliant” military success aimed at neutralizing threats, not overthrowing the regime :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. Trump said the operation sends a clear message: “Now is the time for peace.” He warned, however, that further targets await if Iran continues its nuclear pursuits :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Tehran Condemns the Strikes, Threatens Retaliation
Iran’s government, including the IRGC and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, denounced the strikes as “military aggression” and warned of inevitable retaliation. Parliament even authorized closing the Strait of Hormuz in response :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. Tehran has already conducted missile and drone strikes on Israel after the U.S. action :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
International Reaction and Diplomatic Fallout
Key U.S. allies like the UK and France, while not participating directly, were reportedly informed beforehand :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. Russia, China, and the UN condemned the operation, warning it risks expanding the Middle Eastern conflict :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. The IAEA confirmed no increase in off-site radiation—a reassuring sign amid fears of a nuclear accident :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
What Comes Next: Escalation or Diplomacy?
The U.S. has bolstered regional forces and advised non-essential personnel to leave Lebanon and Gulf bases :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. Vice President Vance framed the strikes as a reset—targeting Iranian nuclear infrastructure, not its people—and called the operation a chance to return to negotiations :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}. Meanwhile, Iranian threats of retaliation keep tensions extraordinarily high.
Conclusion: High-Risk Gamble With Global Stakes
Operation Midnight Hammer is one of the most significant U.S. military actions in decades against nuclear sites. With “extremely severe damage” confirmed at key facilities, and Iran vowing countermeasures, the region braces for an uncertain aftermath. Diplomatic pathways remain tenuous as global leaders assess next steps in this volatile conflict.
