The recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict. Here's a breakdown of the key events and reactions:
The Strikes
President Donald Trump announced the strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, calling them a "spectacular military success".
The US military likely used B-2 Spirit bombers to penetrate the heavily fortified Fordow complex, which is buried deep in the mountains.
The strikes targeted Iran's biggest uranium enrichment facility at Natanz and a uranium conversion facility at Esfahan.
Iran's Response
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the US strikes, saying they "crossed a very big red line" and vowed a "legitimate response" to defend Iran's sovereignty and people.
Araghchi called on the UN Security Council to convene an emergency session to condemn the US aggression and hold the US administration accountable.
Iran's nuclear safety centre reported no radiation contamination or nuclear exposure beyond the sites, but the country's armed forces are on full standby and ready to respond.
International Reactions
The UN chief expressed grave alarm over the US strike and warned against further escalation.
Leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and the EU urged Iran to show restraint and return to diplomatic negotiations.
China condemned the US strike, saying it exacerbated tensions in the Middle East.
Pope Leo XIV appealed for peace, saying war "amplifies problems and produces deep wounds in the history of peoples".
What's Next?
The world waits with bated breath to see how Iran will respond to the US strikes.
Araghchi said he's unsure how much room is left for diplomacy, but Iran's top diplomat is in touch with regional foreign ministers to stop the "Israeli aggression".
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the situation.
Key Takeaways
US Strikes: Targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow and Natanz.
Iran's Response: Vowed a "legitimate response" to defend its sovereignty and people.
International Reactions: Widespread condemnation and calls for restraint and diplomacy.
IAEA: No reported increases in off-site radiation levels, but an emergency meeting is being held.
Global Concerns: Fear of escalation and impact on regional stability.