The United States executed its swift and perilous military operation 'Operation Midnight Hammer' against Iran with resounding success. In just 25 minutes, it targeted three crucial nuclear sites in Iran. The US Air Force carried out aerial attacks on Iran's nuclear bases at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, deploying seven stealth B-2 bombers that released 12 massive bombs. Over 125 aircraft participated in this highly classified mission, utilizing an elaborate 'deception' strategy.
What Did the US General Say?
During a White House press conference, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Kane stated that seven stealth B-2 bombers participated in the operation. These bombers dropped 30,000 pound (about 13,608 kilograms) bunker-buster bombs on Iran's Fordow and Natanz nuclear sites. Meanwhile, Tomahawk cruise missiles were used in the attack on Isfahan.
Mission Launch and Route
The American B-2 stealth bombers took off from an airbase in Missouri. This 18-hour mission was executed with utmost secrecy. General Dan Kane noted that each B-2 bomber operated with a two-man crew and maintained minimal communication throughout the mission to keep enemies unaware.
How Was the Attack Carried Out?
The American attack commenced at 4:10 a.m., Indian Standard Time, on Sunday. The B-2 bombers first targeted the Fordow nuclear site, unleashing two large bunker-buster bombs. Soon after, other B-2 bombers attacked Natanz and Esfahan. By 4:35 a.m., all US aircraft had exited Iranian airspace.
Source: aajtak
These aircraft departed from the Missouri airbase, marking the longest B-2 mission flight since the 9/11 attacks. According to Kane, the American assaults on Iran included 14 bunker-buster bombs, over two dozen Tomahawk missiles, and more than 125 military aircraft, representing the first use of such ammunition against Iran in the Middle East conflict.
'Decoy' Strategy Provided the Upper Hand
General Kane revealed that some bombers were purposefully sent towards the Pacific Ocean to mislead Iran, known as a decoy mission, knowledge of which was limited to a few senior officials.
Trump Ordered the Attack
The assaults occurred following a statement by US President Donald Trump, declaring a decision on whether to assist Israel in attacks on Iran would be made within two weeks. However, within two days, he authorized the attacks from the White House Situation Room.
'We Kept Iran in the Dark Until the End'
Kane noted that Iran neither attacked while the US forces were en route nor upon their return. He emphasized that the Tomahawk missiles were the last to hit Isfahan, ensuring Iran remained in the dark. He added that Iran's surface-to-air missile system failed to intercept the US forces.
US Defense Secretary Declares Iran's Nuclear Program Obliterated
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hailed the operation as a historic triumph, asserting that Iran's nuclear program is now entirely dismantled. He stated President Trump had been clear from the start that Iran would never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons.
