The United States launched powerful airstrikes and completely destroyed three nuclear sites in Iran on Saturday. This move further escalated the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

Iranian state TV confirmed the strikes. The attacks targeted Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow, three of Iran’s most critical nuclear facilities.

Iranian Official Confirms Strikes

Akbar Salehi, an aide to the governor of Isfahan, confirmed the incident through Iran’s state agency IRNA.

He stated, “Many residents witnessed attacks near the nuclear centres of Isfahan and Natanz,” and added that “several explosions were heard in Isfahan and Natanz regions.”

Iran Claims Sites Were Already Evacuated

Iran’s state television later revealed that the sites had been cleared in advance. It reported, “The Islamic Republic had evacuated the three nuclear sites some time ago.”

Despite the damage, the broadcaster played down the impact of the attack, saying, “Trump usually bluffs. The extent of the damage needs to be assessed. The Islamic Republic's nuclear industry cannot be destroyed by bombing.”

Iranian Broadcasters Threaten Retaliation

After the US strikes, Iranian state TV presenters warned of serious consequences.

One presenter declared that “every US civilian and military personnel in the region is now a legitimate target.”

In a viral video, state TV showed a graphic displaying US military bases across the Middle East. It claimed, “the majority of these bases were within the fire range of Iran.”

Another presenter warned Trump directly, stating, “The battle has just begun, Mr. Trump! Now you talk of peace? We will deal with you in a way that makes you understand the consequences of recklessness,” as reported by Iran International.

Iran’s Atomic Agency Condemns the US

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization issued a strong statement. It described the attack as a “blatant violation of international law.”

The agency said, “Following the brutal attacks by the Zionist enemy over the past few days, Iran’s nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan came under a savage assault in the early hours of today—an act in blatant violation of international law.”

It further criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for remaining silent, stating, “This action, which contravenes international norms, has unfortunately taken place under the indifference—or even complicity—of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”

The agency also accused the US of openly taking credit. It said, “The American enemy, through the U.S. president’s public statements on social media, has claimed responsibility for the attacks on these sites ...The global community is expected to condemn these lawless acts rooted in the logic of the jungle and support Iran in asserting its legitimate rights.”