Experts believe that the United States has successfully dismantled Iran’s nuclear program following a series of targeted strikes on key facilities. Jonathan Schanzer, a leading authority on the issue, claimed that the strike has rendered Iran’s atomic program ‘no longer,’ signaling the end of a critical phase in the country’s nuclear ambitions. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump hailed the operation as a ‘very successful attack’ on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, emphasizing that the U.S. has eliminated its key enrichment sites, including Ford, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation, involving B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles, marks a significant escalation in U.S. and Israeli military engagement against Iran’s nuclear program. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was reportedly informed prior to the strikes, highlighting the close coordination between the two nations. The attack is viewed as a strategic shift in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, potentially paving the way for renewed diplomatic efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
During a press conference on Sunday morning, the number of bunker busters used was updated to 14 by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lt. Gen. Dan Caine. This information came after Fox News’ Sean Hannity had previously reported that President Trump had given him details on the U.S. strikes in Iran, noting that the U.S. used six bunker-buster bombs — each weighing 15 tons — in the attacks on Fordow. The bombs were dropped from American B-2 stealth bombers. However, the number was later revised to 14, indicating the operation was more extensive than initially reported. The use of such advanced weaponry underscores the strategic importance of the targets and the scale of the mission.
Additionally, 30 Tomahawk missiles were launched from U.S. submarines to attack the Natanz and Isfahan facilities. While there is speculation that the missiles were shot from an Ohio Class Submarine, no confirmation has been provided. The use of these missiles, combined with the B-2 strikes, represents a coordinated and multi-pronged assault on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. This approach reflects the U.S. military’s capability to conduct precision strikes against high-value targets, even in complex and contested environments.
Israeli officials have also emphasized the significance of the operation. Lisa Daftari, an Iran expert and Editor-in-Chief of The Foreign Desk, stated that both Israeli and U.S. officials recognize that anything less than total destruction of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would only result in a temporary pause, not a permanent end. She called for sustained pressure and continued diplomatic isolation to ensure the long-term elimination of Iran’s nuclear program. This perspective aligns with the broader strategic goals of the U.S. and its allies to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and maintain regional stability.
The attacks have come amid rising tensions in the Middle East, with Israel and Iran continuing to engage in airstrikes against each other. The U.S. involvement in these strikes has added another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics. President Trump’s public declaration of success, along with the detailed reports from Fox News, highlights the strategic importance of the operation. The international community now faces the challenge of assessing the long-term implications of these strikes and their potential impact on the balance of power in the region.