Published on: 22 June, 2025 22:51 IST
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization has confirmed targeted strikes on three of its nuclear facilities early Sunday morning, condemning the attacks as a violation of international law. Despite the aggression, Iranian authorities asserted their commitment to advancing what they termed the country’s “national industry”- a clear reference to Iran’s nuclear program.
In an official statement, the organization said, “The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran assures the great Iranian nation that, despite the malicious conspiracies of its enemies, the development of this national industry—fueled by the sacrifices of our nuclear martyrs- will not be halted. Thousands of our revolutionary scientists and experts remain committed to this mission.”
The statement did not disclose the extent of the damage sustained in the attacks, which reportedly targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz.
Iran Warns of Consequences, Cites Right to Self-Defense
Iranian Foreign Minister Sayyid Abbas Araghchi issued a stern warning, calling the US strikes a “grave violation” of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).
“The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences,” Araghchi stated. “As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, the United States has committed a serious breach of international norms. Iran reserves all options under the UN Charter to defend its sovereignty, its interests, and its people.”
President Pezeshkian Threatens Harsh Response
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, warned of a severe response to what he described as ongoing aggression by the “Zionist regime.”
“Our response to the continued hostility will be far more devastating,” Pezeshkian said, according to the state-run IRNA news agency.
Despite the proximity of the Fordo enrichment site to the city of Qom, Iranian officials reassured citizens that there was no immediate threat to civilian life. “There is no danger to the people of Qom and the surrounding area,” said a statement issued by the province’s crisis management department.
Trump Declares Strike “Very Successful”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking on his Truth Social platform, confirmed the airstrikes and claimed mission success.
“A full payload of bombs was dropped on the primary site, Fordo,” Trump said. “The aircraft have exited Iranian airspace safely and are en route back. Iran must now agree to end this war. It must never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon.”
Russia Condemns US Actions
Moscow harshly criticized the US military operation, labeling it a “flagrant” breach of international law. In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said:
“The irresponsible decision to subject the territory of a sovereign nation to missile and bomb attacks—regardless of justification—blatantly violates international law, the United Nations Charter, and multiple Security Council resolutions.”
As international tensions escalate, global leaders are calling for restraint and diplomatic solutions to avoid a deeper regional conflict.