Major US cities are now on high alert after the United States launched airstrikes on three major nuclear sites in Iran. Security officials have tightened measures across the country due to concerns over possible retaliation.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) also raised their alert levels following the US military action. In Israel, movement is now restricted to essential activities only. All schools and workplaces are closed, except those involved in critical sectors.
Iran Condemns Strikes, Vows to Defend
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a strong response to the US strikes. He called the bombing of Iran’s nuclear sites a “criminal behaviour.” It was his first official reaction since the attack.
He warned that the strike would bring lasting consequences. “The move will have everlasting consequences,” said Araghchi. He described the US action as “outrageous” and declared that Iran “reserved all options” to protect its sovereignty.
Trump Warns of More Attacks if Peace Fails
US President Donald Trump addressed the nation after the airstrikes on Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. He issued a warning to Iran, saying the US was prepared to act again if peace could not be achieved.
In his televised address from the White House, Trump said, “Remember, there are many targets left. Tonight was the most difficult of them all by far and perhaps the most lethal. But if peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill.”
He emphasized that US forces could strike again at any moment. “Most of them can be taken out in a matter of minutes,” Trump said. He praised American military strength and added, “There’s no military in the world that couldn’t have done what we did tonight, not even close. There has never been a military that can do what took place just a little while ago.”
US Officials to Address Nation
Trump also announced that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine would hold a press conference on Sunday (US time) at the Pentagon to give more details about the operation.
Trump Praises US and Israeli Forces
In his speech, Trump thanked the forces involved in the operation. “I want to thank the Israeli military for the wonderful job they’ve done,” he said.
He added, “Most importantly, I want to congratulate great American patriots who flew those magnificent machines tonight, and all of the United States’ military on an operation the likes of which the world has not seen in many, many decades. Hopefully we will no longer need their services in this capacity. I hope that so.”
Strikes Follow Diplomatic Pause
Trump’s statement came just two days after he said he would allow a two-week window for diplomacy with Iran. However, the situation escalated quickly, leading to military action instead of dialogue.