In the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time in Iran (IRST)—equivalent to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, on the U.S. East Coast (EDT)—the United States launched a synchronized aerial attack on three critical sites of Iran's nuclear program: Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. Fordo, nestled beneath a mountain near Qom, was the primary target due to its fortified nature. Natanz, located centrally within Iran, is recognized as the key uranium enrichment facility. Meanwhile, Isfahan hosts a technological hub with research reactors and laboratories.
According to U.S. officials, the operation was deemed "successful," with all three targets reportedly destroyed. While Iran acknowledged the impact on these facilities, it maintained that prior evacuations prevented casualties and radioactive contamination. However, satellite images and Western intelligence indicate substantial structural damage at Fordo, potentially setting back Iran's nuclear ambitions significantly.
The Military Operation's Composition
The mission involved a combination of strategic bombers and cruise missiles. The U.S. Air Force deployed six B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, each carrying GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker-buster bombs, designed to demolish deeply entrenched structures. Reports suggest that between five and six of these bombs were used on Fordo, with at least two targeting Natanz. Concurrently, U.S. naval units launched over thirty Tomahawk missiles from submarines and destroyers in the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, striking surface targets at Natanz and Isfahan. This blend of weaponry effectively dismantled both underground and above-ground facilities, including laboratories, defense systems, and support buildings.
Logistics and Reach of the B-2 Bombers
The B-2 bombers took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, executing a meticulously planned route to maintain the element of surprise. Part of the squadron feigned a course towards the Pacific before veering east, crossing the Atlantic toward Iran. The bombers were refueled mid-flight by KC-135 tankers. With a range of up to 18,500 kilometers when refueled, the B-2s completed the mission without stops. The entire operation spanned 36 to 38 hours, including the return to base.
Coordination with Allied Forces
The operation involved close coordination between the United States and Israel. U.S. sources indicated that Israel participated in planning and preemptive airstrikes that weakened Iran's air defenses, easing the B-2's penetration into Iranian airspace undetected. Additionally, the U.S. had deployed extra forces in the region, including F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighter jets, alongside the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier, to provide deterrent coverage and immediate response capability.
Geopolitical Background and Implications
The attack occurred amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. On June 13, Israel had conducted airstrikes on Iranian targets, citing an imminent nuclear threat. Iran retaliated with ballistic missiles and drones against Israeli territory. Initially limited to defensive support, the U.S. shifted its stance following intelligence reports suggesting Iran was accelerating its nuclear weapons development.
President Donald Trump, following an ultimatum, authorized the preemptive strike, stating it was necessary to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power and to ensure Israel's security. Trump warned that without dismantling its nuclear program, Iran would face increasingly severe measures from the United States.
International Reaction
Iran condemned the airstrike as a breach of international law and vowed that its nuclear program would persist. In retaliation, Iran launched fresh missile strikes against Israel and cautioned that U.S. bases in the region could become targets. Despite Iran's claims of no casualties or radioactive leaks, the confrontation has heightened the risk of a regional war.
International bodies like the UN expressed concern over the intensifying conflict. Several Latin American governments, including Chile, Colombia, and Mexico, denounced the use of force and called for renewed dialogue. In Europe, the UK supported the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while France and Germany voiced apprehensions about the situation. Russia and China strongly criticized the attack, labeling it a violation of Iranian sovereignty.
The B-2 Spirit: Features and Capabilities
The B-2 Spirit is a long-range strategic bomber with a flying wing design and stealth technology. It can carry up to 18 tons of weaponry in its internal bays, including conventional, nuclear, and bunker-buster bombs. Its speed is subsonic (Mach 0.95), and it operates at altitudes exceeding 15,000 meters.
Thanks to its low observability design, the B-2 can infiltrate advanced defense systems undetected. Missions are typically conducted under absolute stealth, employing GPS navigation and electro-optical sensors. The B-2 can operate from the continental United States to any global point with in-flight refueling.
Operational Impact
The strike on Iran showcased the B-2's ability to execute high-precision missions against fortified targets over vast distances. Its combination of stealth, range, and firepower makes it a crucial component of U.S. air power. Although it will eventually be succeeded by the B-21 Raider, the B-2 remains one of the world's most advanced strategic platforms.
Key Questions on U.S. Military Strategy Against Iran
Why did the United States target Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan?
These sites are critical to Iran's nuclear program. Fordo is fortified and situated underground, Natanz is the main uranium enrichment facility, and Isfahan contains research reactors and technological laboratories.
What was the role of Israel in the U.S. operation?
Israel was involved in both the planning and execution phases, conducting airstrikes that weakened Iran's air defenses, facilitating the undetected entry of U.S. B-2 bombers into Iranian airspace.
How did the international community react to the U.S. attack on Iran?
Reactions varied, with some countries condemning the use of force, while others expressed concern over the escalating conflict. Russia and China criticized the attack, whereas the UK supported preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.