In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the United States launched a major air attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, bombing key enrichment sites in a secret operation code-named "Operation Midnight Hammer." US President Donald Trump, who ordered the strikes, sparked fresh controversy by suggesting regime change in Iran might be necessary. The strikes, which were called in in coordination with Israel, were said to have destroyed three key Iranian nuclear facilities, including the heavily fortified Fordow site. General Dan Caine, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, confirmed that 75 precision-guided munitions, including more than two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles and 14 bunker-buster bombs, were fired in a high-risk operation that involved over 125 aircraft.

Even as senior US officials consistently reaffirmed that the military action was not intended as a regime change, Trump seemed to undermine that message in a post on his social media. “It’s not politically correct to use the term ‘Regime Change,’ but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime Change??? MIGA!!!” Trump posted. Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rebuffed any such hints, saying the mission was focused on neutralising Iran's nuclear program. "This mission was not and has not been about regime change," Hegseth told reporters at the Pentagon. "We want to shut down their nuclear program, and then we want to negotiate with the Iranians a long-term agreement," Vance said at the White House Press meet.

Massive Destruction of Iran's Nuclear Facilities

According to Caine, preliminary reports indicate "extremely severe damage" at all three targeted sites. The attacks reportedly hit deep underground bunkers at Fordow with 30,000-pound bunker-busters, with satellite images confirming visible destruction to the mountain above the site. Iranian officials reported to Reuters that most of the highly enriched uranium had already been moved from Fordow before the attack. The UN nuclear inspector, IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi, acknowledged strikes have reached the site, but underground damage is yet to be evaluated. "Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran, as shown by satellite images. Obliteration is an accurate term! The white structure shown is deeply imbedded into the rock, with even its roof well below ground level, and completely shielded from flame. The biggest damage took place far below ground level. Bullseye!!!" Trump posted this on Truth Social.

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Tehran launched a retaliatory missile barrage at Israel, injuring dozens and causing infrastructural damage in Tel Aviv. US troops in the area have been put on high alert, and additional protective measures have been implemented for staff in Iraq and Syria. The Pentagon also repositioned aircraft and naval craft from high-risk zones.

ALSO READ: 'Military Or Civilian, Every American Region A Target': Iran Warns US After Strike On N-Site | 10 Points

The Washington-based activist group Human Rights Activists said Israeli air raids in Iran, parallel with the US operation, have killed at least 950 individuals and injured more than 3,450, among them 380 civilians and 253 members of the security forces. Iran's Health Ministry confirmed 400 fatalities and 3,056 wounded but has downplayed casualty reports during continuous conflict.