Iran has strongly condemned the US-led airstrikes  on its nuclear facilities, vowing to take revenge for the attacks. The country’s military officials and parliament members have promised that the US will face consequences for its actions. Tehran denounced the US and Israel at an emergency UN Security Council meeting, calling for international condemnation of the strikes.

US President Donald Trump claimed the airstrikes “obliterated” three Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz. However, military officials in Israel and the US are still assessing the extent of the damage. According to Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the US bombing likely caused “very significant damage” to the underground parts of Iran’s Fordow nuclear site. The IAEA used 12 “bunker-buster” bombs, each weighing around 30,000 pounds, to strike the site.

The conflict between Iran and Israel has entered its 11th day, with both countries trading strikes. Early Monday, Iranian state-affiliated media reported Israel struck a large military complex in Iran. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation and wider regional implications.

Global Reactions

– UN Chief’s Warning: UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned against another cycle of destruction and retaliation, urging restraint from all parties involved.
– Global Condemnation: Japan called for de-escalation of the conflict, while the European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urged all sides to step back and prevent further escalation.
– US Alert: The US State Department issued a worldwide caution alert for Americans traveling or living abroad, citing potential demonstrations against US citizens and interests.

Potential Retaliation

Iran’s retaliation could take several forms, including:
– Targeting the Strait of Hormuz: Iran could attempt to disrupt global oil supplies by targeting the strategic waterway.
– Attacking US Bases: Iran has threatened to attack US bases in the Middle East, including those in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
– Activating Regional Allies: Iran could activate its network of militant groups across the Middle East to launch attacks on US interests.
– Nuclear Program: Iran might accelerate its nuclear program or abandon its commitments to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.

source -France 24