CWA # 1725
Global Politics Explainer
Operation Midnight Hammer: US bombs three nuclear sites in Iran
What were the three Iranian nuclear sites that were targeted? What are the B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs? What do these attacks mean? What Next?
|
Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & M Kejia
22 June 2025
|
Photo Source: Google Map. Places are approximate and not to scale.
Click here for PDF Version
What happened?
What does President Trump has to say about the US attacks in Iran on 22 June 2025?
On 22 June, President Donald Trump announced that the US military had hit three of Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities in a “very successful attack,” adding that the heavily strengthened Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan facilities are “gone” and “now is the time for peace. In his statement, he highlighted that the objective was to destroy Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity and stop the nuclear threat caused by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror. Trump thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for working as a “team” to erase the “horrible threat to Israel.”
The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, congratulated Trump for his bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities. He added that “History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons.”
Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan:
What do we know about the three nuclear sites that the US has targeted?
The Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, located deep inside the mountains of the city of Qom in northwestern Iran, is central to Iran’s nuclear project. The facility has been operational since 2009 and in 2023, IAEA confirmed that Fordow houses nearly 2,700 centrifuges and has enriched uranium to levels of up to 83.7 per cent, making it the only facility with near weapon-grade uranium just short of the 90 per cent threshold. Strategically located at around 80-110 meters underground and heavily shielded, Fordow demands ‘bunker-buster’ bombs, like the 30,000-pound GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator B-2 bombers used by the US to penetrate the facility. In 2024, Washington reported a large-scale expansion of nearly 1,400 new centrifuges in Fordow, inciting international alarm. Iran is also suspected of stockpiling 60 per cent enriched uranium at Fordow.
Natanz is Iran’s largest and most sophisticated uranium enrichment facility that develops and assembles uranium enrichment centrifuges, a technology vital in turning uranium into nuclear fuel. The uranium enrichment up to 60 per cent, slightly lower than the 90 per cent weapon-grade threshold, is carried out in the Natanz facility. The facility has been operational since 2003, and is located nearly 250 kilometres to the south of Tehran. According to The Nuclear Threat Initiative, Natanz hosts both the Commercial Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) and the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP). Natanz has three underground facilities designed to house 50,000 centrifuges and six above-ground facilities, two of which are used for gas centrifuge assemblies.
The Isfahan Nuclear Technology Centre in central Iran is the heart of Iran’s technical and scientific research. The facility transforms raw uranium into usable nuclear fuel. The Nuclear Threat Initiative describes Isfahan as “Iran’s largest nuclear research complex,” and “multi-purpose research center suspected of being the center of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons program.” The facility was established in 1984 with Chinese assistance and operating three Chinese research Reactors, with over 3,000 scientists.
B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs:
How did the US carry out the strikes?
President Trump said Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities were ‘totally obliterated’ by military strikes. BBC reported that B-2 stealth bombers carried out the operation using GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOP), also known as ‘bunker buster' bombs. The bomb weighs 13000 kg and can go as deep as 18m in concrete or 61m in earth before exploding. B-2 stealth bomber is the only one in the US that can carry the 13000 kg GBU-57 bomb. It is known for advanced stealth technology, which renders them less detectable. It can hold two GBU-57s and has a crew of two pilots. It has a wingspan of 172 feet and a length of 69 feet.
In March, six B-2 bombers were deployed to the Indian Ocean Island of Diego Garcia. On 21 June, Reuters reported that the US moved B-2 bombers to the Pacific Island of Guam. Officials did not confirm the specific launch location, but Reuters say that Diego Garcia is in a suitable position to conduct attacks on the Middle East. The B-2 stealth bomber is the only one in the US that can carry the 13000 kg GBU-57 bomb. It is known for advanced stealth technology, which renders them less detectable. It has a wingspan of 172 feet and a length of 69 feet. The bat-like structure and radar-absorbing materials contribute to its stealthiness. The radar cross-section of this aircraft is similar to that of a small bird. It can hold two GBU-57s and has a crew of two pilots with extensive use of automation. This technology was developed during the Cold War, and the production of each aircraft costs approximately $2.1 billion. The US has produced only 21 B-2 bombers. The range of the missile is over 6000 nautical miles without refuelling and has a payload capacity of more than 18000 kg, making it apt for long-range targets.
BBC reported that the US would have used this bomb to attack Fordo, which is located below the earth's surface. US officials said to CBS that two GBU-57 bombs were used for each target. The working mechanism is such that the aircraft releases the bomb 12 km above the target, allowing it to fall at high speed and be guided by a satellite to steer. The heavy weight leads to a large amount of kinetic energy that helps in penetrating the ground upon impact. The bomb then detonates to destroy the target.
IAEA on Iran
What did the recent IAEA reports say about Iran and nuclear enrichment?
On 31 May, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) confidential report to member states stated that Iran carried out secret nuclear activities with material not disclosed to the agency at three locations that have long been under investigation. The report was requested by the IAEA’s 35-nation Board of Governors in November last year. The findings of the IAEA report are crucial as it allows for member states to push the board to declare Iran in violation of its non-proliferation obligations.
On 12 June, a day before Israel launched its military strikes against Iran, the IAEA’s Board declared Iran in violation of its non-proliferation obligations. This is IAEA’s first such finding in nearly two decades. Reuters stated that the decision follows the “culmination of several festering stand-offs” between the IAEA and Iran, which have worsened since President Trump withdrew the US from the nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers during his first tenure in 2018. On the same day, Iran announced it had built a new uranium enrichment facility. The statement came as Iran’s retaliation against the IAEA declaration.
On 19 June, IAEA’s Director General Rafael Grossi identified Isfahan as the location of a uranium enrichment plant that Iran said would soon open in retaliation. Isfahan is home to one of Iran's biggest nuclear facilities, and would have been its fourth enrichment plant in operation had it gone online. On 16 June, Grossi stated that the "underground spaces" at Isfahan did not seem to be affected by the Israeli attacks, wherein much of Iran's most highly enriched uranium has been stored.
On 20 June, Director General Grossi told the UNSC that attacks have led to a steep decline in nuclear safety and security in Iran. He added that “Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.”
On 22 June, the Director General stated that he will call an emergency meeting of the IAEA Board on 23 June, given the “urgent situation” in Iran following the US attacks.
“I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities should never be attacked,” he added, reiterating his call for a diplomatic solution. IAEA reported that, as per regulatory authorities, there has been no increase in off-site radiation levels and no health impacts are expected beyond the targeted sites.
What has been happening between Israel and Iran during the last one week?
On 13 June, Israel launched air and drone strikes on Iran's central nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz, defence infrastructure and civilian quarters and killed key figures including the supreme leader's adviser and former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ali Shamkhani, Iran's armed forces chief of staff, Mohammad Bagheri, Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami and the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ air force Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Iran retaliated against these strikes. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operations “will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon stated that the strikes on Iran were an "act of national preservation.” Iran’s Ambassador to the UN Amir Saeid Iravani accused the US of being complicit “beyond doubt.”
On 14 June, Iran launched several ballistic missiles at Israel’s defence structures in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz responded to the strikes warning that “the citizens of Iran will pay a heavy price” and that “Tehran will burn” if Iran does not back down. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added that “more is on the way.”
On 15 June, the crisis continued. Iran has reported at least 138 people killed since Friday. Israel’s authorities stated that at least 10 people were killed and more than 140 were injured. The Israeli military stated its goal to wipe out Iran’s nuclear and ballistic program and warned people living near weapon facilities to evacuate.
On 16 June, Iran’s missiles struck Tel Aviv and the port city of Haifa. According to Reuters, eight people were killed and homes were destroyed. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said that Tehran would “pay the price and soon.” Israel targeted Iran’s Command Centre of the Quds Force. Iran’s foreign minister said: “Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue. It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like Netanyahu.”
On 17 June, Iran launched missile attack on Israel. The Israeli military’s chief spokesperson stated that Israel had destroyed more than 120 missile launchers since the beginning of the crisis.
On 18 June, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that Iran will not accept Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender” and said: “The Americans should know that any US military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage."
On 19 June, Iran's missiles that targeted a military site hit the Soroka medical centre. 89 injuries were reported across Israel due to the overnight attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu said that they would "exact the full price from the tyrants in Tehran." Israel's forces attacked the Arak heavy water reactor and the Natanz facility. Israel's Defence Minister stated that the elimination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is one of the war goals.
On 20 June, Iran's Supreme Leader said: "There is no room for negotiations with the US until Israeli aggression stops." The US President will decide their stance within two weeks, and the UK, France, Germany, and EU diplomats plan to meet Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.
On 21 June, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force Head Mohammed Said Izadi was eliminated in a precision strike.
On 22 June, the US joined the Israeli assault and “obliterated” Iran’s main nuclear sites, Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi wrote on social media: “Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interests and people." Iran stated that US actions violated international law would have “everlasting consequences.” Revolutionary Guard elite stated that 40 missiles had been fired and the main part of their operational capabilities had not been utilised yet. The Israel Prime Minister congratulated Trump.
After giving a two-week warning, why did Trump decide to strike Iran? What does it mean?
The US strikes on three Iranian nuclear strikes mean the following. First, it brings the US directly into the ongoing military strikes by Israel on Iran. Since 13 June 2025, Israel has been targeting Iran. Besides Iran’s capital, Tehran, a primary target of the Israeli attacks has been on Iran’s nuclear sites, especially Natanz and Isfahan. Due to the geographic location and the lack of bunker busters, Israel could not target Fordo, where the main nuclear enrichment was believed to have taken place. While Netanyahu would have preferred the American engagement from the beginning, Trump was hesitant. Trump’s initial statements did not make it clear whether the US would engage directly in the ongoing attacks against Iran. The attacks on 22 June brings the US into the ongoing military strikes against Iran.
Second, the US-Iran direct military confrontation. Though there were numerous American covert operations against Iran, the last major American military action was in 1979. Some of the major covert American attacks include the cyber attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites, and more importantly, the killing of General Qassem Soleimani, commander of the IRGC Quds Force in Baghdad. The latest strike is also qualitatively significant; the attack is not an ordinary one. It has taken out Iran’s nuclear crown jewels and years of research. The latest American attack not just erases the past – in terms of the Iranian hard work in enriching Uranium. More importantly, it questions Iran’s future by erasing what could have been Tehran’s nuclear deterrence. Trump may believe that he has “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear sites, but he has renewed the conflict.
Third, the American strikes on three nuclear sites deep inside Iran bring the US directly back into an active conflict in the Middle East. A primary American objective in the Middle East during recent years, across the Democrats-Republicans political divide in the US, has been to keep away from any direct engagement in the Middle East. One of the primary objectives of Trump’s Abraham Accords was to bring an end to the endless wars and get out of the Middle East conflicts. Trump’s latest strikes on Iran, bring the US back into the middle of Middle East conflicts.
Fourth, the pressure on Iran. By targeting the nuclear sites that were believed to be the core of Iran’s nuclear enrichment, the US has dented Iran’s future deterrence. More importantly, it was an attack on Iran’s sovereignty; the American B2 bombers not only hit Iran’s nuclear sites but also exposed Tehran’s military vulnerability. Iran’s foreign minister has been reported to have informed that he would be visiting Moscow for a meeting with President Putin before the next steps, and has warned of “everlasting consequences.” With a crucial negotiation card (nuclear enrichment) gone, how would Tehran respond to the US violation?
Fifth, the US military superiority and vulnerability. The fact that the US could fly into the Iranian airspace, using stealth and avoiding detection, and use bombs that could penetrate bunkers that were built to prevent such an attack, highlights the military arsenal it has. In a briefing after the attacks, the US Defence Secretary Hegseth said that no other country could have done what the US has. While the US may have the above superiority, it also has vulnerabilities. The US has numerous assets in the Middle East; it has military bases and American troops across the region – in Qatar, UAE, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria and Saudi Arabia. Trump may believe that the US has obliterated Iran’s nuclear sites, but it still has conventional and proxy assets that could undermine the American allies in the mainland and in the maritime domains.
The US Attack on Iran: A Backgrounder
A Chronology of Recent Developments
11 June 2025: The New York Times report speculated US withdrawal of diplomats from Iraq and the voluntary departure of military family members from the Middle East to be hinting at a potential Israeli strike on Iran.
12 June 2025: IAEA declares Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations.
13 June 2025: Israel strikes key nuclear facilities; Kills civilians, top officials including supreme leader's advisor, armed forces chief of staff, IRGC chief and six leading nuclear scientists.
14 June 2025: Following Iran’s counter-strike, Israel resumes attacks on Iran; Israel’s Defence Minister warned that “Tehran will burn.”
15 June 2025: Both countries attack each other, killing more than 140
16 June 2025: Iran strikes Tel Aviv and Haifa; Tehran will “pay the price and soon", says Israel's Defence Minister.
17 June 2025: President Trump says that he wants a "real end" to the issue of nuclear activities in Iran.
18 June 2025: Iran Supreme Leader rejects US President's call for "unconditional surrender".
19 June 2025: Israel's forces attack the Arak heavy water reactor and Natanz facility. Eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader is one of the war goals, states Israel's Defence Minister.
20 June 2025: Iran says no negotiations "until Israeli aggression stops."
21 June 2025: IRGC commander overseeing Iran's proxy militias killed; Iran's supreme leader names candidates to succeed him and other military leaders.
22 June 2025: The US bombs three major nuclear sites in Iran (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan), bringing the US directly into the Israel-Iran conflict. President Trump says it "totally obliterated" Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities, and asks Tehran to "make peace" or face "far greater" attacks.
References
“B-2 bombers moving to Guam amid Middle East tensions, US officials say,” Reuters, 22 June 2025.
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/b-2-bombers-moving-guam-amid-middle-east-tensions-us-officials-say-2025-06-21/
“Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant,” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/fordow-fuel-enrichment-plant/
“Isfahan (Esfahan) Nuclear Technology Center (INTC),” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/isfahan-esfahan-nuclear-technology-center-intc/
“Joint Statement on the Latest Iranian Nuclear Steps Reported by the IAEA - United States Department of State,” Joint Statement on the Latest Iranian Nuclear Steps Reported by the IAEA, 28 December 2023.
https://2021-2025.state.gov/joint-statement-on-the-latest-iranian-nuclear-steps-reported-by-the-iaea/#:~:text=The%20December%2026%2C%202023%20report%20by%20the%20IAEA,to%20levels%20observed%20between%20January%20and%20June%202023.
“Natanz Enrichment Complex,” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/natanz-enrichment-complex/
“Update on Developments in Iran (4),” International Atomic Energy Agency, 22 June 2025.
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/pressreleases/update-on-developments-in-iran-4
“Update on Developments in Iran (2),” International Atomic Energy Agency, 21 June 2025.
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/pressreleases/update-on-developments-in-iran-2
“Why the US used B-2 stealth bombers, costing $2.1 billion each, to strike Iran’s nuclear sites,” The Economic Times, 22 June 2025. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/why-the-us-used-b-2-stealth-bombers-costing-2-1-billion-each-to-strike-irans-nuclear-sites/articleshow/122000963.cms?from=mdr
Francois Murphy, “IAEA chief identifies Isfahan as Iran's planned uranium enrichment site,” Reuters, 20 June 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iaea-chief-identifies-isfahan-irans-planned-uranium-enrichment-site-2025-06-19/
Francois Murphy, “IAEA board declares Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations,” Reuters, 12 June 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/iaea-board-declares-iran-breach-non-proliferation-duties-diplomats-say-2025-06-12/
Francois Murphy, “Damning IAEA report spells out past secret nuclear activities in Iran,” Reuters, 31 May 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/iaea-report-says-iran-had-secret-activities-with-undeclared-nuclear-material-2025-05-31/
Heather Williams, “Three Things Will Determine Iran’s Nuclear Future—Fordow Is Just One of Them,” Centre for Strategic & International Studies, 17 June 2025
https://www.csis.org/analysis/three-things-will-determine-irans-nuclear-future-fordow-just-one-them
Max Matza, “US moves stealth bombers as it considers military action against Iran - reports,” BBC, 22 June. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czry3m6xn5xo
About the NIAS TWT Team
Brighty Ann Sarah and R. Preetha are postgraduate students at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. Santhiya. M and Aparna A Nair are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. M Kejia Reddy is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry.
Click here for PDF Version