U.S. Says Strikes Caused ‘Severe Damage,’ Warns Iran Against Retaliation

iran israel war

U.S. STRIKES IRAN: The United States has officially entered the conflict between Israel and Iran, launching overnight strikes targeting three of Iran’s nuclear facilities: Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. The attack involved both warplanes and submarines.

DETAILS OF THE OPERATION: The U.S. military has dubbed the offensive Operation Midnight Hammer. According to a senior defense official, over 125 American military aircraft participated, making it the largest B-2 operational strike in U.S. history, and the second-largest B-2 mission ever, surpassed only by those following the 9/11 attacks.

U.N. SECURITY COUNCIL: The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an emergency session at 3 p.m., following a request from Tehran, according to U.N. sources who spoke with NBC News.

PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ADDRESS: In a national address following the attacks, President Donald Trump declared the targeted nuclear sites were “completely and totally obliterated.” He warned that any future aggression from Iran would be met with a response that is “far greater and a lot easier.”

NETANYAHU AT THE WESTERN WALL: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Western Wall, stating, “The people have risen as a lion. We will continue to perform wonders and miracles to ensure the eternity of Israel for generations.” He also offered a prayer for President Trump’s well-being.

ESCALATION CONCERNS: Iran responded by saying it “reserves all options” in retaliation. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres urged all sides to show restraint, warning, “At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos.” President Trump added that any attack on U.S. interests by Iran would trigger a response “even greater than what was unleashed today.”

IRAN’S RESPONSE: This morning, Iran launched a missile barrage into Israel, resulting in injuries and damage in Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, the Houthi rebels in Yemen — Iranian allies — announced their intention to join Iran in retaliatory actions.

DOMESTIC U.S. RESPONSE: The strikes have sparked debate within the U.S., particularly among Democrats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) questioned the legality of the operation, stating, “No president should be allowed to unilaterally march this nation into something as consequential as war with erratic threats and no strategy.”

RISING DEATH TOLL: In the 10 days since the conflict began, Israeli strikes have killed at least 400 people and injured 3,000 in Iran, according to Iran’s health ministry. In Israel, 24 people have died from Iran’s retaliatory strikes.

BBC

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