June 21 – In a dramatic turn on the global stage, President Donald Trump announced via social media that the United States has launched targeted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan—in a bold move that signals direct U.S. involvement in Israel’s ongoing conflict with Iran.
“A full payload of bombs was dropped on the primary target, Fordow,” Trump wrote. “All planes have safely exited Iranian airspace. Mission accomplished. Congratulations to our great American warriors.”
Trump, 78, will address the nation live at 10 p.m. EST on Saturday to speak directly about the mission and the path forward.
The coordinated assault marks a significant military escalation. According to Trump, the strike was “very successful” and intended to neutralize key elements of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. He added:
“There is no military on Earth that could have executed this operation so precisely. Now is the time for peace.”
Israel Laid the Groundwork
This U.S. strike follows a series of aggressive military actions by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who, earlier this month, confirmed that Israel had launched attacks aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear program.
“We struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment and weaponization programs,” Netanyahu said in a video statement on June 12. “We also targeted Iran’s leading nuclear scientists and their ballistic missile infrastructure.”
Rising Tensions and Stark Warnings
The region has been on edge for days, with Iran and Israel exchanging drone and missile fire, prompting fears of a broader conflict. While Trump initially remained vague about his intentions, he signaled on June 18 that military action was on the table:
“I may do it. I may not. Nobody knows what I’m going to do,” he said cryptically.
Just days earlier, on June 17, Trump issued a blunt warning on Truth Social, addressing Iran’s Supreme Leader directly:
“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He’s an easy target—safe for now. But our patience is wearing thin. We will not tolerate attacks on civilians or U.S. troops.”
Tonight’s speech is expected to outline Trump’s broader strategy and offer insights into potential next steps for the U.S. in the region.