WASHINGTON – In a dramatic late-night address, President Donald J. Trump confirmed the United States carried out a coordinated airstrike on Iran’s top nuclear enrichment sites, claiming total destruction of facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.
Trump said the operation aimed to dismantle Iran’s ability to produce nuclear weapons and described it as a “spectacular military success.” He declared that the targeted locations “have been completely and totally obliterated,” leaving Iran with a stark choice: pursue peace or face further and faster attacks.
“The bully of the Middle East must now make peace,” Trump said. “If they do not, future attacks will be far greater and a lot easier.”
The strike, which Trump said involved close coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marks a dramatic escalation following days of rising tensions in the region. Trump praised the Israeli military and American pilots who “flew those magnificent machines,” calling the assault “an operation the likes of which the world has not seen in many, many decades.”
The President also singled out General Dan Raisen Kaine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hgsth for their leadership. Both are expected to speak at a Pentagon press conference scheduled for 8 a.m. Friday.
Trump ended the speech with a message to Iran: “There will be either peace, or there will be tragedy… There are many targets left.” He added that most remaining sites “can be taken out in a matter of minutes.”
The strikes follow years of U.S. pressure on Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and support for militant groups. Trump also referenced past attacks on American personnel, including the killing of U.S. troops and injuries caused by Iranian-backed roadside bombs.
While no immediate Iranian response was reported, regional tensions remain high, and world leaders are bracing for potential retaliation.
