U.S., Israel Strike Iran Nuclear Sites; Iran Vows Response

President Trump authorized a large-scale U.S. strike, in coordination with Israel, on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, deploying bunker-buster bombs, Tomahawk missiles, and over 125 aircraft. The operation was described by U.S. officials as having destroyed Iran’s nuclear ambitions and was framed as a show of American deterrence, with assurances it was not intended to force regime change. U.S. officials warned that further action could follow if Iran retaliates. Iranian leaders condemned the strikes as violations of international law and the UN Charter, threatened 'everlasting consequences,' and asserted a right to self-defense. U.S. lawmakers and state leaders responded along partisan lines, with increased security measures in states such as Texas and California and bipartisan concern for U.S. personnel in the region. International reactions included calls for de-escalation, dialogue, and criticism of perceived double standards in the handling of the conflict.