Key Facts
• June 22: US Defense Secretary Hegseth announced strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites.
• Operation ‘Midnight Anvil’ involved seven B-2 bombers and 14 GBU-57 bunker buster bombs.
• Hegseth emphasized the mission’s success and denied intentions of regime change in Iran.
• Iranian Foreign Minister Aragchi denied nuclear weapons possession and condemned US actions.
• Aragchi plans to meet Russian President Putin in Moscow on June 23 for discussions.
• Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba stressed the importance of de-escalation and halting nuclear development.
• Japan’s government has yet to decide on supporting the US attack, with discussions ongoing.
Summary
The US conducted a successful operation targeting three Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22, deploying advanced weaponry, including GBU-57 bombs. Defense Secretary Hegseth declared the mission dismantled Iran’s nuclear development program but clarified it was not aimed at regime change. Iran’s Foreign Minister Aragchi denied possessing nuclear weapons and criticized the US attack, though he refrained from detailing potential retaliatory measures. Aragchi is set to consult with Russian President Putin in Moscow. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba called for de-escalation and emphasized the need to prevent Iran’s nuclear armament. Japan’s stance on supporting the US action remains undecided, with internal discussions ongoing.
