Key Facts
• June 22, 2025: U.S. attacked three nuclear facilities in Iran.
• Facilities targeted: Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.
• Natanz: Iran’s largest uranium enrichment plant.
• Fordow: Enrichment facility located 80-90 meters underground.
• Isfahan: Centrifuge manufacturing site for uranium enrichment.
• U.S. deployed B-2 bombers and submarines for the operation.
• 12 bunker-buster bombs dropped on Fordow; 30 cruise missiles launched at other sites.
• Trump administration cited “nuclear threat removal” as the reason for the attack.
• Intelligence shift: March 2025, Iran not producing nuclear weapons; June 20, 2025, claims of imminent capability.
• Israel requested U.S. assistance due to Fordow’s fortified location.
• Iran reportedly moved enriched uranium to undisclosed locations before the attack.
• Regional impact: Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Tel Aviv and Haifa.
• Economic effects: Rising oil prices due to Middle East tensions.
• Japan’s reliance on Middle Eastern oil (over 90%) raises concerns about supply disruptions.
Summary
On June 22, 2025, the U.S. launched its first attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, targeting Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. The operation involved B-2 bombers and submarines, deploying bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles. The Trump administration justified the attack as a response to Iran’s alleged imminent nuclear weapon production, despite earlier intelligence suggesting otherwise. Israel’s inability to target Fordow’s fortified location prompted U.S. intervention. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israeli cities and threatened regional stability. The conflict has escalated oil prices, significantly impacting Japan, which relies on the Middle East for over 90% of its oil imports. The situation remains volatile, with potential for further escalation.
