In a major development, the United States joined hands with Israel in launching direct airstrikes on three of Iran’s most important nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
Sudden Bombing Campaign with Stealth Bombers
This marks the first time the US has openly intervened with military power in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
The US used advanced B-2 stealth bombers to drop powerful bombs known as “bunker busters” on Fordow. These bombs are specially designed to destroy underground facilities. Six bunker buster bombs were used in the attack on Fordow, which is buried deep under the surface. Along with that, about 30 Tomahawk missiles were fired at the other two nuclear sites — Natanz and Isfahan.
The B-2 bombers are the only aircraft in the US arsenal capable of carrying the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-pound bomb meant to destroy heavily fortified underground targets. These bombers are designed to avoid radar detection and fly long distances without refueling.
Deftechtimes has earlier reported that these bombs are likely to be used in this war.
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This bombing operation happened shortly after days of Israeli attacks on Iran’s air defense systems and nuclear sites. According to defense reports, those earlier attacks helped weaken Iran’s defense and created a small time window where US aircraft could carry out a powerful strike.
Iran confirmed that its three key nuclear facilities were hit but stated that the sites were already evacuated before the attack took place. These sites had been known for their involvement in uranium enrichment and nuclear research. The International Atomic Energy Agency had earlier confirmed that uranium enrichment had been happening at all three of these locations.
Reactions Across the Region and Rising Tensions
Iran strongly criticized the US-led attack, calling it illegal under international law. Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization released a public statement saying that the airstrikes were a clear violation of its national rights. The statement said that these sites were targeted unfairly and that Iran would defend itself using all available legal methods.
The Iranian government also claimed that its nuclear activities were peaceful and not aimed at making weapons. However, the country also said it will not stop its work, no matter how many attacks it faces. In response to the US attack, Iranian military groups launched drone strikes aimed at Israel. Other allied groups in the region also warned of possible action against American naval vessels operating nearby.
The bombing raised concerns among international peace organizations as well. Many groups worried that hitting nuclear facilities could cause dangerous contamination. Fordow, which was one of the main targets, had been enriching uranium to levels close to what is needed for weapons. A direct hit on such a facility could lead to the release of radioactive materials.
This concern was echoed by multiple organizations that work on arms control. They expressed fear that such strikes may encourage Iran to further speed up its nuclear development instead of slowing it down.
Neighboring countries also reacted. Some nations in the region, especially those that recently improved relations with Iran, voiced concern about rising instability. One country described the attack as an act that might bring chaos to the region. Another called for an emergency meeting of key Islamic countries to discuss the situation.
Meanwhile, western nations urged all sides to remain calm and return to peaceful discussions. They called for a halt to further military actions and emphasized the need for diplomacy.
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Impact of B-2 Bomber Strikes on Nuclear Facilities
The three sites that were hit — Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan — play a major role in Iran’s nuclear efforts.
Fordow is a heavily guarded facility located underground. It is believed to be buried 80 to 90 meters below ground level. The site had recently resumed enriching uranium to around 60%, which is just below the level required to create nuclear weapons. This facility had always been seen as the most difficult to destroy due to its depth and location.
Natanz is the largest nuclear enrichment facility in Iran. It houses thousands of centrifuges and is also built partially underground. It has been at the center of Iran’s nuclear development for years. According to reports, this site received multiple missile hits during the attack.
Isfahan serves as a key research center. It includes reactors and chemical processing units used to convert uranium into fuel. It has long been part of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and had been monitored by international agencies.
All three facilities had been under watch by the global community for years. Their destruction — even partial — could affect Iran’s ability to quickly advance in nuclear technology.
The use of the GBU-57 bunker buster bomb was crucial in this operation. This bomb is designed to drill deep underground before exploding. It can penetrate thick layers of rock and concrete, making it the only practical weapon for targets like Fordow. Each of these bombs weighs over 13,000 kilograms and is guided by advanced navigation systems to hit with high accuracy.
The aircraft that delivered these bombs, the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, is among the most advanced military planes in the world. It can fly undetected through enemy airspace and deliver massive payloads without being seen on radar. Their use in this mission shows the seriousness and scale of the operation.
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After the strikes, videos and images began circulating online, showing the damage to buildings near the sites. Rescue teams were seen working near the affected areas, though no official numbers were released regarding casualties or injuries.
Meanwhile, air defense systems in Israel were reportedly able to intercept several incoming drones and missiles launched as retaliation. However, some explosions were confirmed in areas surrounding key cities. Emergency response teams in Israel reported injuries, some of them serious, resulting from the morning’s missile attacks.
The fallout of this B-2 Bomber strike is likely to affect not just Iran and Israel, but the larger region. The use of high-powered bombs on sensitive nuclear facilities raises fears about radioactive leaks and further military escalation.
In the immediate aftermath, transportation routes around the struck areas were restricted. Security forces warned residents to stay away from affected sites due to the possibility of unexploded devices or structural collapse.
So far, no country has reported direct involvement in cleanup or inspection of the impacted nuclear facilities. The global community awaits further updates regarding the full extent of damage and possible contamination.
This major development adds to an already tense situation in the Middle East. With both nations now directly exchanging attacks, the region remains on high alert. For now, the military action stands as one of the most significant moments in recent history involving the use of stealth bombers, bunker busters, and nuclear-related infrastructure.
