Middle East on Edge After US Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities.

In a major escalation, Iran has officially closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for the world’s oil shipments. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a stern warning to the United States, declaring that it has entered a war that will cost America far more than Iran.

Iranian authorities stated, “For us, the war has now begun,” and declared that all U.S. military bases, assets, and personnel across the region are now considered legitimate targets. They further warned, “The U.S. must now be prepared to face the consequences of its actions.”

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also announced that American forces and citizens in the region would now be treated as targets. Additionally, Iran warned that European naval forces would not be permitted to reach European shores safely.

Yemen’s Ansarullah movement (commonly known as the Houthis) condemned the U.S. strikes, calling the attack the beginning of a broader conflict. Senior Houthi leader Mohammed al-Farrah said, “The destruction of Iran’s nuclear sites is not the conclusion—it is only the beginning. There is no escape now.”

Meanwhile, Iran’s Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that the U.S. had struck three nuclear sites but insisted that Iran would continue its peaceful nuclear program. Iranian media also reported several explosions at the Natanz facility and severe damage to the entrance and exit tunnels at Fordow.