Tensions Flare as US Strikes Iranian Nuclear Sites

The United States has launched strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, intensifying a regional crisis. This action has prompted international concern and calls for de-escalation amidst escalating tensions between the US, Iran, and Israel.

International Condemnation and Calls for Peace

Following the US strikes, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK’s Prime Minister, has urged Iran to resume negotiations. He emphasized the importance of regional stability and referred to Iran’s nuclear program as a significant threat to global security. Reports indicate that the UK was informed in advance, and did not participate in the attacks.

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“Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat,”

—Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that there are currently over 3,000 centrifuges enriching uranium in Iran, a figure that continues to raise alarm (IAEA News).

Escalating Attacks and Retaliation

The United States targeted three Iranian nuclear sites: Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo, on Saturday night. These strikes followed an Israeli operation that targeted military sites, including nuclear facilities, on June 13. Iran responded with retaliatory strikes, leading to an exchange of fire between the two countries.

In a televised address, President Donald Trump described the operation as a “spectacular military success,” warning Iran of greater attacks if they did not seek peace. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s foreign minister, condemned the strikes as “outrageous,” foreseeing “everlasting consequences.” António Guterres, the UN Secretary General, labeled the overnight strikes a “dangerous escalation”.