In the early hours of June 22, 2025, the United States executed a meticulously planned military operation named Operation Midnight Hammer, targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Seven B‑2 Spirit stealth bombers flew nonstop from Missouri, dropping a total of 14 GBU‑57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators—often called bunker-buster bombs—on Fordow and Natanz, while U.S. submarines launched dozens of Tomahawk cruise missiles at Isfahan. Around 75 precision-guided weapons were used in this mission, which involved over 125 aircraft, support tankers, escort fighters, and intelligence assets. U.S. officials described this as the largest B‑2 operational strike in history, and one that all returned safely without encountering Iranian air defenses

President Donald Trump announced the strike in a national address, stating that the operation was not an act of war or intended to topple Iran's government, but rather aimed to neutralize a perceived nuclear threat. He emphasized that all aircraft had safely exited Iranian airspace and vowed overwhelming response to any retaliation Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the operation as a "bold and brilliant" execution that effectively destroyed Iran's nuclear ambitions, though General Dan Caine cautioned that final damage assessments would take time.

Iran's response was swift and stern. While state media initially downplayed the damage, officials warned of "harsh retaliation" and placed Iran's military and its regional proxies on high alert . International reactions were equally divided: global powers like Russia and China condemned the U.S. action and urged de-escalation, while the United Nations called for urgent diplomacy. Domestically, the strikes sparked debates about executive authority, with many Republicans supporting the move and Democrats, including AOC, criticizing it as unconstitutional and urging Congress to intervene

The strikes have set off speculation about whether the U.S. and Iran are now at war. Satellite imagery showed extensive damage, especially at the Fordow site, raising concerns about whether infrastructure can be destroyed while scientific knowledge remains intact. Oil prices and global markets fluctuated amid fears of a broader regional conflict, As President Trump signaled that no regime change was intended but that further action was possible, the world now waits to see Iran's next move. Will Iran respond directly or escalate through proxies? Could this push the region—and possibly the world—closer to another major war?

Disclaimer: This overview reflects publicly reported information as of June 22, 2025. It is intended as a neutral analysis based on reputable news sources and official statements. It does not represent insider information or political endorsement, and aims to present the facts clearly and responsibly.