THE HAGUE, Netherlands – President Donald Trump asserted that recent U.S. bombings led to the “complete obliteration” of Iran’s nuclear sites, effectively ending hostilities between Iran and Israel. This statement comes amid conflicting intelligence assessments suggesting the damage may be less severe.
Breaking: U.S. Strikes and Their Immediate Impact
Speaking ahead of a NATO summit, President Trump reiterated that the bombings resulted in a “complete obliteration” of Iran’s nuclear capabilities. He dismissed intelligence reports indicating the attacks only set back Iran’s nuclear program by a few months, labeling them as “very inconclusive.”
The president compared the strikes’ impact to the historic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, asserting that the U.S. actions “ended the war” between Iran and Israel. Trump further rejected claims that Iran successfully relocated enriched uranium before the strikes, emphasizing the rapid U.S. response.
The intelligence says we don’t know…It could have been very severe.
Key Details Emerge
Trump took to Truth Social to counter reports from The New York Times and CNN on the damage assessment, stating: “THE NUCLEAR SITES IN IRAN ARE COMPLETELY DESTROYED!” He criticized these outlets, accusing them of undermining one of the “most successful military strikes in history.”
Steve Witkoff, the president’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, supported Trump’s claims on Fox News, confirming the deployment of 12 bunker buster bombs on the Fordow facility. Witkoff described the leaking of information as “outrageous” and “treasonous.”
Industry Response
According to unnamed officials interviewed by The New York Times, the U.S. bombing closed entrances to two enrichment facilities but did not collapse their underground structures. More reports are expected as the U.S. and Iran assess the damage.
Regional Reactions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran would not return to negotiations if U.S. “aggression” continued. Meanwhile, Israel’s military chief Eyal Zamir noted that Israel’s campaign against Iran was not over but had entered a new phase, shifting focus back to Gaza.
By the Numbers
- 12 bunker buster bombs deployed on Fordow
- 13 Iranian missiles reportedly intercepted
- 1 missile “set free” according to Trump
What Comes Next
Shortly before departing for the NATO summit, Trump criticized both Israel and Iran for ceasefire violations. He expressed particular concern over Israel’s military actions, urging restraint and warning against further bombings.
Trump announced on Truth Social that both nations agreed to a “Complete and Total CEASEFIRE,” with hopes of maintaining peace. However, Iranian state media and officials offered differing accounts regarding the ceasefire’s status and terms.
Background Context
The series of military actions and diplomatic tensions follow a pattern of escalating conflict in the region. Russian and Chinese officials condemned the U.S. strikes, citing violations of international law and increased regional instability.
According to NBC News, Iran had previously warned the U.S. of potential sleeper-cell activations in response to American aggression, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.
Expert Analysis
Defense experts caution that while the immediate threat may have been mitigated, the long-term implications of these military actions remain uncertain. The potential for renewed hostilities persists, as both Iran and Israel maintain aggressive postures.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that Al Udeid Air Force Base was targeted by Iranian missiles, though no casualties were reported. This incident underscores the ongoing volatility in U.S.-Iran relations.
Regional Implications
The strikes have drawn international attention, with global powers weighing in on the potential consequences. As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful, urging restraint and diplomatic solutions.
As the narrative unfolds, the world awaits further developments and hopes for a peaceful resolution to the tensions in the Middle East.
