In a stunning escalation, the U.S. military has entered the Israel–Iran conflict with a major offensive against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the operation, its impact, and the global response.
What Took Place: Operation Midnight Hammer
- Date & Codename: On June 22, 2025, the U.S. executed “Operation Midnight Hammer”, striking Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
- Weapons Used: B-2 Spirit stealth bombers dropped 14 GBU‑57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators. Tomahawk missiles were also launched from submarines.
- Targeted Sites: The three heavily fortified underground enrichment sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
- Outcome (U.S. Claim): “Extremely severe damage” at all three sites; Natanz said to be destroyed, Fordow and Isfahan heavily damaged.
- Tehran’s View: Iranian officials dispute severity, describing the attack as “superficial damage” .
Key Stats & Tactical Highlights
- Bomb Count: 14 bunker‑busters and ~30 Tomahawks were deployed.
- First of Its Kind: It marks the first U.S. use of GBU‑57s in combat.
- Leadership: Authorized by President Donald Trump, with military oversight from Gen. Dan Caine.
- Strategic Shift: This is the first direct U.S. military involvement in the Israel–Iran war.
Regional Impact & Reactions
- Escalation Risk: Iran’s foreign minister warns it’s “not time for diplomacy now” and promises “a response”.
- Leadership Warning: Ayatollah Khamenei says any U.S. strike “will have serious irreparable consequences”.
- Global Diplomatic Alarm: The UN, EU, UK, Germany, France, China, Russia, and Gulf nations have urged de‑escalation.
- UN Security Council: A session has been convened in response to the strike.
- Congressional Pushback: Democrats and some Republicans raised concerns over lack of legislative approval.
- Oil Markets & Maritime Risk: Iran threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz—key to global oil shipment—driving oil prices higher.
Why This Is Monumental
- Nuclear Deterrence: The strike is meant to cripple Iran’s nuclear enrichment capabilities and delay weapon potential.
- US Policy Shift: Marks a departure from diplomatic to direct military strategy.
- Regional Fragility: Escalation could draw in U.S. forces, Iranian allies, and proxy actors across the Middle East.
Summary of Key Points
- Operation Midnight Hammer: June 22, 2025 — U.S. bombs Iran nuclear sites.
- 14 bunker-busters + 30 Tomahawks dropped.
- U.S. claims nuclear sites were “obliterated”; Iran disputes.
- Iran vows retaliation; world powers call for calm.
- Potential global ripple effects: oil, diplomatic stability, wider conflict.
Final Take
The U.S. attack marks a game-changer in the escalating Israel–Iran war. It risks triggering broader Middle East conflict and further destabilizing global markets and diplomacy. The next 48 hours—Tehran’s response, international diplomacy, and the reaction in global capitals—will be pivotal.
