US, Israel Conduct Airstrikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites Amid Casualties, Displacement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have jointly celebrated a coordinated airstrike on Iranian nuclear facilities, describing it as a historic and decisive action to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu praised the United States for its "awesome and righteous might," emphasizing that strength is a prerequisite for peace in the Middle East, while Trump highlighted the unprecedented level of cooperation between the two nations. The strikes targeted sites at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, with Israel initiating the campaign due to concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions, which Iran denies. Israeli ceremonial President Isaac Herzog also expressed his gratitude to Trump and Netanyahu, acknowledging the military efforts to remove an existential threat despite Iran's missile retaliation that has primarily affected civilian areas in Israel. The United Nations has called for de-escalation amid rising tensions. This direct US involvement marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran.