Tensions in the Middle East have dramatically intensified following U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—under Operation Midnight Hammer. The large-scale operation involved over 125 aircraft, B-2 stealth bombers, and Tomahawk cruise missiles. According to the Pentagon, 14 bunker buster bombs were used to severely damage Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. U.S. forces utilized advanced deception tactics, including decoy aircraft and high-speed suppression weapons, to avoid Iranian air defenses. Vice President JD Vance and General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised the mission’s execution, calling it a powerful demonstration of America’s military coordination. However, the first 48 hours after the strike are considered highly volatile, with fears of further escalation.

Those fears were realized as Israel launched additional strikes on Monday, targeting Iranian airports and Tehran’s infamous Evin prison. Iran’s Health Ministry reported at least 400 deaths and 3,000 injuries due to the Israeli strikes. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks that killed 24 Israelis. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, indicating the possibility of a coordinated international response. Meanwhile, U.S. bases in Erbil, Iraq are on high alert, airlines have canceled routes to the Gulf region, and U.S. personnel in Qatar have been told to shelter in place. Iran’s domestic economy is also showing signs of strain, with widespread business closures and rising public anxiety. As the conflict escalates, global leaders are watching closely, concerned that the situation could spiral into a broader regional war.