New Delhi: Did the US bomb Iran? Yes — and here’s what we know. On 22 June 2025, the United States launched a surprise strike on Iran’s nuclear sites using B-2 stealth bombers and submarine-launched missiles.
This unprecedented move crippled Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan — three key facilities in Iran’s nuclear program — and stunned the global community.
Ever since, one question has echoed across the media and public discourse: Are we on the brink of World War III?
The Night of “Operation Midnight Hammer”
- Targets hit: Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan—Tehran’s most hardened nuclear plants.
- Assets deployed: Seven B-2 Spirits, 30+ cruise missiles, electronic-warfare escorts.
- Mission objective: Delay Iran’s uranium-enrichment capability by years without a ground invasion.
Did the US Bomb Iran? Confirming the Facts
The Pentagon confirmed the air-raids hours after the final aircraft left Iranian airspace, ending decades of “neither-confirm-nor-deny” ambiguity.
Satellite imagery released by think-tank analysts shows collapsed tunnels at Fordo and scorched centrifuge halls at Natanz—visual evidence that leaves little room for doubt.
Iran’s Immediate Reaction: Rage Meets Restraint
Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council branded the strikes a “crime against the Iranian nation.” Yet, rather than firing a barrage of missiles at US bases, Iran:
- Mobilised air-defence units and dispersed ballistic-missile launchers.
- Activated cyber-cells probing Western power-grid defences.
- Signalled its regional allies—Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, Houthis—to prepare “calibrated” responses.
So far, no direct Iranian missiles have landed on US forces, suggesting leaders are still weighing retaliation against potential catastrophe.
Is World War III About to Start?
“WW3” trended worldwide within minutes of the strike. In reality, four scenarios dominate expert wargaming tables:
| Scenario | 30-Day Probability | Trigger Event |
|---|---|---|
| Managed de-escalation | ≈ 40 % | Back-channel talks, limited casualties |
| Regional proxy war | ≈ 30 % | Hezbollah or Houthis open new fronts |
| Direct US–Iran war | ≈ 25 % | Iranian missile strike kills US troops |
| Great-power spill-over | < 5 % | Russian or Chinese assets hit |
Bottom line: A global conflagration is possible but not probable. The absence of alliance treaties compelling nuclear-armed powers to leap in on Iran’s side, plus the economic cost of a wider Gulf war, act as strong circuit-breakers.
Does Iran Plan to Attack the USA?
Iranian commanders say “all options are on the table.” Options range from proxy rocket fire that gives Tehran plausible deniability to a headline-grabbing but risky missile strike on Gulf bases.
Cyber disruption of US critical infrastructure is another likely card. Analysts agree: Tehran’s red line is killing large numbers of American personnel on camera; crossing that would almost guarantee a massive US counter-offensive.
Signals to Watch in the Next 72 Hours
- De-escalatory: Geneva cease-fire talks announced; oil prices settling below \$100 /bbl; US carriers loitering outside the Gulf.
- Escalatory: Iranian ballistic missiles launched at US assets; Hezbollah rocket barrages north of Israel; synchronised cyberattacks on US utilities.
Key Takeaways
The United States did bomb Iran’s nuclear sites. A world war is possible but remains unlikely. Iran has not yet attacked the US directly, though it may employ proxies or cyberwarfare.
For a deeper historical backdrop, read our History of US–Iran tensions primer. For live updates, follow us regularly.
Stay Informed
Bookmark this article—we’ll update as new facts emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did the US bomb Iran in 2025?
Yes. On June 22, 2025, the United States launched a military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan using B-2 stealth bombers and submarine-launched missiles.
Is World War III about to start after the Iran strikes?
While tensions are high, experts believe a full-scale world war is unlikely. The lack of formal military alliances, strong economic dependencies, and active diplomacy make global conflict less probable at this stage.
Will Iran retaliate against the United States?
Iran has vowed to respond but has so far avoided direct military action. Retaliation could come in the form of proxy attacks, cyber operations, or economic moves rather than a full-scale strike.
What was Operation Midnight Hammer?
Operation Midnight Hammer was the codename for the U.S. airstrike on June 22, 2025, that targeted key Iranian nuclear facilities. It involved B-2 bombers, precision-guided missiles, and extensive air support.
Which nuclear facilities did the US target in Iran?
The United States targeted three primary Iranian nuclear facilities: Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. These sites were believed to house enrichment infrastructure and sensitive nuclear research capabilities.