Sun Jun 22 02:40:00 UTC 2025: **U.S. Launches Airstrikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites, Escalating Middle East Conflict**

**WASHINGTON D.C.** – In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, the United States launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities early Sunday morning (Indian Standard Time). The targets, located in Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, were reportedly struck by B-2 Spirit Stealth Bombers deploying GBU-57 “bunker buster” bombs and Tomahawk cruise missiles.

According to sources cited by The New York Times, the Iranian nuclear sites are buried deep underground, necessitating the use of specialized B-2 bombers. The aircraft reportedly took off from Missouri Air Base on June 20th and flew for approximately 37 hours, refueling multiple times in mid-air, before carrying out the strikes. Six 30,000-pound GBU-57 bombs were reportedly dropped on the Fordo site, while Natanz was hit with two bombs. Isfahan and Natanz were also targeted with 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from U.S. submarines.

This marks the first known combat deployment of the GBU-57 bunker buster bomb.

Following the attack, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) stated that no radiation leaks occurred at the targeted facilities, despite claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that the strikes aimed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

The strikes come amidst heightened tensions in the region, with Israel allegedly conducting previous airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites in an effort to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Iran has consistently denied pursuing nuclear weapons.

In retaliation for the U.S. strikes, Iran reportedly launched missiles targeting 14 key locations in Israel. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as the largest ever against Israel. Iran has also threatened to target U.S. military bases and warships in the Middle East, prompting a high alert status for over 40,000 U.S. troops stationed in the region. U.S. officials have asserted their readiness to respond to any Iranian aggression.

Adding to the volatility, a member of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council warned of the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil transport.

Furthermore, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have destroyed two Iranian F-5 fighter jets stationed at Dezful Airport and eight ballistic missile launchers, six of which were allegedly prepared to launch attacks on Israel.

According to a Middle East-based news website, Amwaj Media, the U.S. provided Iran with advance notice of the impending strikes, stating that the objective was solely to target the nuclear facilities and not to initiate a broader war.

Casualty figures are mounting on both sides, with reports indicating hundreds of deaths and thousands injured in Iran. The conflict has also resulted in significant damage and casualties in Israel.

This is a developing story.

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