US Vice President Warns Iran Retaliation Following Nuclear Site Strikes Would Be Catastrophic Mistake

Following President Donald Trump's announcement of US airstrikes that obliterated three Iranian nuclear facilities, Vice President JD Vance warned Iran that retaliation against American troops would be a "catastrophic mistake" and emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation. Vance stressed that the strikes, known as "Operation Midnight Hammer," successfully set back Iran's nuclear weapons program and that the US seeks a diplomatic resolution rather than prolonged conflict. He also cautioned Iran against disrupting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, noting it would be economically self-destructive. The attacks have drawn sharp criticism from some lawmakers, including Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who called the strike a constitutional violation and suggested impeachment proceedings against Trump, while others like Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman expressed support for the president's decisive action. The origins of Iran's nuclear program trace back to the 1970s, with decades of developments aided by various international actors, but successive US administrations failed to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions until Trump's recent strike. The situation remains tense with the US preparing for potential Iranian retaliation amid efforts to pursue a long-term settlement.