The United States has officially joined Israel in its ongoing war against Iran by launching airstrikes on three of Iran’s nuclear facilities — Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan — on Sunday (IST). The strikes mark a historic escalation, being the first direct US military action on Iranian soil since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Missile exchanges between Iran and Israel followed within hours of the American strikes, sparking fears of a full-scale regional war.
President Donald Trump, addressing the nation early Sunday (IST), confirmed the strikes and described them as “very successful.”
“American planes completed a very successful attack,” Trump said, claiming that the targeted sites were “obliterated.” He further warned of more strikes unless Iran “makes peace.”
Iranian officials acknowledged the bombings but said that personnel stationed at the nuclear sites had been safely evacuated before the attacks.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in his first remarks following the US assault, accused Washington of gross violations of international law.
“The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has committed a grave violation of the UN Charter, international law, and the NPT by attacking Iran’s peaceful nuclear installations,” Araghchi posted online.
“The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences. Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behavior,” he added.
“Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Trump’s decision in a televised statement.
“Congratulations, President Trump. Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities with the awesome and righteous might of the United States will change history,” Netanyahu declared.
“History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing “deep concern” over the recent escalation. In a social media post, Modi said both leaders discussed the situation in detail, and reiterated India’s appeal for “immediate de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy” to restore regional peace and stability.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will convene an emergency meeting of its Board of Governors on Monday. Director General Rafael Grossi confirmed the decision on social media, citing the urgency of the situation. Iran’s nuclear chief Mohammad Eslam has written to the IAEA demanding an investigation and urging the agency to condemn the US action.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation of the US strikes, calling them a “flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter.” Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of President Vladimir Putin’s Security Council, warned that “several nations” might now support Iran’s nuclear ambitions in response.
China also denounced the attacks, saying they “seriously violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law.” A spokesperson urged all parties, “particularly Israel,” to cease hostilities and called for renewed dialogue.
“China stands ready to work with the international community to uphold justice and work for restoring peace and stability in the Middle East,” the statement added.
(With inputs from agencies)