U.S. Launches Major Airstrikes on Iran Using B-2 Stealth Bombers, Raising Fears of Wider Conflict
On the evening of June 21, the United States launched a large-scale military operation against Iran, signaling a serious escalation in Middle Eastern tensions.
Deploying its most advanced aircraft—the B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, each valued at $2.1 billion—the U.S. targeted three key Iranian nuclear facilities using high-impact, ground-penetrating missiles.
This direct military engagement represents a significant policy shift, marking the first open collaboration with Israeli forces in striking Iran’s nuclear program. Concerns are growing that the move could spark a broader regional confrontation.
Trump Declares Strikes a Success, Iran Promises Consequences
Following the operation, former President Donald Trump publicly praised the military effort, stating: “NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE” and urging Iran to return to negotiations or face “further action.” Trump asserted that the strike dealt a major blow to Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
In sharp contrast, Iranian officials condemned the attacks as illegal, dangerous, and aggressive, vowing to respond with force. Tehran characterized the assault as a violation of its sovereignty and warned of serious repercussions.
Details of the Military Operation
According to reports, the airstrikes included a combination of air and naval assets:
Six B-2 Spirit bombers departed from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, flying across the globe to target Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility.
Thirty Tomahawk cruise missiles were launched by U.S. Navy submarines, hitting sites in Natanz and Esfahan.
The operation used GBU-57 “bunker buster” bombs, capable of destroying fortified underground structures.
Satellite images released after the strikes revealed large craters, indicating extensive damage to the impacted facilities.
Why the B-2 Bomber Is So Effective
The B-2 Spirit remains one of the most formidable assets in the U.S. Air Force. Its unique design—a flying wing structure—along with radar-absorbing materials and advanced stealth technology, allows it to fly virtually undetected by modern radar systems.
Its stealth features reduce visibility across multiple spectrums, including radar, infrared, acoustic, and visual. According to defense analysts, the B-2’s radar profile is so small it can appear as insignificant as a bird on detection systems.
These bombers can stay airborne for up to 40 hours, refuel midflight, and carry a variety of precision-guided weapons—including nuclear warheads, although there is no indication they were used in this operation.
Iran Responds with Missile Fire
Shortly after the strikes, Iran fired missiles toward Israel, prompting a swift Israeli response targeting facilities in Tehran. The exchange has increased tensions across the region.
Iran has also allegedly launched attacks on U.S. military installations in Iraq and Qatar, while threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway for global oil shipments. Experts warn that such a move could destabilize international oil markets and trigger a global economic crisis.
Trump’s Statement on Iran’s Future
Although Trump has claimed the U.S. does not seek regime change, his social media remarks tell a more ambiguous story. In one post, he questioned whether Iran’s government is capable of change: “If the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a regime change?” The statement has sparked widespread debate about U.S. intentions.
Conclusion
The deployment of B-2 stealth bombers and precision missiles marks a dramatic intensification of U.S. involvement in the Middle East. While the strike was framed as a step toward peace through military strength, Iran’s aggressive response and the potential threat to global trade routes suggest the opposite may be true.
As both sides dig in, diplomatic options narrow, and the risk of all-out conflict looms larger. With international leaders urging restraint and the world watching closely, the next few weeks may prove critical in shaping the outcome of this unfolding crisis.