Trump Orders U.S. Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites; Fordow Facility ‘Obliterated’ in Unprecedented Attack

U.S. strikes Iranian nuclear sites — June 21, 2025 | WASHINGTON D.C. – In a seismic escalation of Middle East tensions, President Donald Trump announced late Saturday night that the United States military has carried out precision strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear program, specifically naming the heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site as a primary objective. The surprise attack, confirmed by the Pentagon to have utilized Tomahawk missiles and advanced B-2 bombers, marks the most direct U.S. military action against Iran in decades and raises immediate questions about war powers, congressional approval, and potential Iranian retaliation.

The Strikes:
According to senior administration officials speaking to USA Today, the U.S. attacks focused on at least three key Iran nuclear sites deep within the country. The most significant target was the Fordow nuclear facility, buried deep within a mountain near Qom. Initial assessments indicate Fordow was “obliterated” or severely crippled. Other sites reportedly hit include the Natanz uranium enrichment complex. The Pentagon stated the operation, involving U.S. bombers launched earlier in the day, aimed to “decisively degrade Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons.”

Trump’s Address:
President Trump addressed the nation in a hastily arranged prime-time speech from the Oval Office at 10 PM ET. Flanked by Vice President and key advisors, Trump declared the strikes on Iran were a necessary response to Iran’s recent large-scale drone and missile attack on Israel and its ongoing support for terrorist proxies. “NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!” Trump asserted, framing the massive bombardment as a decisive action to prevent wider war and eliminate an existential threat.

He claimed Iran was “weeks away” from a nuclear weapon capability – a claim long disputed by international inspectors. “The United States will not tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran threatening the world,” Trump stated. He made no mention of seeking prior congressional approval.

Immediate Fallout & Constitutional Crisis:
The attack on Iran ignited a political firestorm within minutes:

• Legal Challenge: Prominent lawmakers, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and libertarian Rep. Thomas Massie, immediately decried the move as unconstitutional. “Donald Trump bombed Iran without Congressional approval,” Ocasio-Cortez tweeted, “if that’s not enough to remove him from office idk what is…” Massie questioned the legal authority for the strike, echoing concerns about presidential overreach. Calls for impeachment proceedings began circulating among Democratic lawmakers.
• Republican Response: U.S. strikes Iranian nuclear sites – While some GOP leaders like Sen. Marco Rubio and Sen. Lindsey Graham voiced strong support for the President’s decisive action, others expressed concern over the lack of consultation with Congress. Sen. John Fetterman issued a statement demanding a full briefing.
• Public Shock: Social media, particularly Twitter (X), exploded with reactions ranging from disbelief to outrage. “WHAT DO U MEAN TRUMP JUST BOMBED IRAN???”, “Trump deadass bombed Iran bro it’s rlly over”, and “did trump declare war on iran?” trended globally. Searches for “did the us bomb iran”, “us bombed iran”, and “fordow” surged.
• Iranian Response: As of early Sunday, Iran’s response remained unknown. State media confirmed explosions near nuclear sites but offered no official government statement. The Iranian President and military leadership were reportedly in emergency session. Experts fear Iran could retaliate directly against U.S. forces in the region, unleash its proxies (like Hezbollah), or accelerate attacks on Israel. “Will Iran attack us?” and “will iran retaliate” became top search queries. Iran News outlets were on high alert.

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The Question of Authorization:
U.S. strikes Iranian nuclear sites – The core controversy revolves around the War Powers Act. The administration is expected to argue the strikes were a defensive act under the President’s authority as Commander-in-Chief, justified by protecting U.S. allies (Israel) and interests. Critics vehemently counter that attacking another nation’s sovereign territory, especially its nuclear sites without an imminent threat, constitutes an act of war requiring Congressional approval. “Does the president need congressional approval to bomb another country?” trended heavily online. Legal scholars anticipate fierce debate and potential court challenges. House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries demanded an immediate classified briefing for all members of Congress.

International Reaction:
The global response was swift and deeply divided:

• Israel: Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly expressed strong private support for the action, though the Israeli government’s official statement was more measured, thanking the U.S. for its commitment to regional security.
• Allies: Key NATO allies like the UK and France expressed “grave concern” and called for emergency sessions of the United Nations Security Council. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pleaded for “maximum restraint.”
• Adversaries: Russia condemned the strikes as “reckless aggression.” China called for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue. Gulf Arab states remained largely silent, reflecting their complex stance towards Iran.
• Markets: Global oil prices spiked sharply in early Asian trading on fears of supply disruption and wider war in the Middle East.

What Happens Next?
U.S. strikes Iranian nuclear sites – The world anxiously awaits Iran’s response. Options range from direct missile attacks on U.S. bases to asymmetric warfare via proxies, cyberattacks, or attempts to close the Strait of Hormuz. The potential for rapid escalation into a full-scale U.S. Iran war is high. Domestically, the political battle over the legality of Trump’s action will dominate Washington, with impeachment talk intensifying. Key questions loom:

• Will Iran retaliate directly against the U.S. homeland or forces? (Is Iran going to attack the U.S.?)
• How severe was the damage to Iran’s nuclear program, particularly Fordow?
• Can the U.S. deter or contain Iranian retaliation?
• Will Congress move to limit presidential war powers or initiate impeachment?
• What is the Iranian President’s next move?

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President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran has irrevocably altered the geopolitical landscape. The strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, particularly the destruction of Fordow, represent a massive gamble. Whether this action forces Iran to the negotiating table or ignites a devastating regional war remains the critical question facing the United States and the world this Sunday morning. Breaking news continues to develop.