The joint United States-Israel operation against Iran was triggered after Tehran insisted on its “right” to enrich uranium. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff revealed that Iran had secretly stockpiled 460 kg of uranium enriched up to 60%, enough for approximately 11 nuclear bombs.
Talks in Geneva collapsed after Iran refused to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs while continuing support for proxy forces like Hezbollah.
What the US and Israel Wanted
According to Witkoff, Washington had three clear goals:
- End Iran’s nuclear and missile development programs.
- Stop financial and military backing for proxy forces such as Hezbollah.
- Neutralize Iran’s naval threat to ensure safe passage in international waters.
Iran rejected all demands, insisting its nuclear program was for civilian enrichment.
Missile Strikes and Retaliation
On Saturday, US and Israeli forces launched coordinated missiles and attack drones targeting multiple Tehran locations, including the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was later confirmed killed.
In response, Iran struck Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities, as well as US military bases and embassies across West Asia. Civilian infrastructure and energy sites, including an oil refinery in Saudi Arabia and a luxury hotel in Dubai, were also hit.
Rising Fears of Regional War
The conflict has raised global concern as Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20 million barrels of oil are transported daily, threatening energy security worldwide.
Israel’s Viewpoint
Gideon Sa’ar said Iran used negotiations as a cover to move nuclear and missile infrastructure underground, making it harder to target. He accused Tehran of wasting time while building military capabilities.
US Officials Speak
US leaders, including Witkoff and Vice President JD Vance, said Iran’s claims of peaceful enrichment do not align with heavily fortified underground facilities. “It doesn’t pass the smell test,” Vance said, noting that enrichment 70–80 feet underground indicates weapons intent rather than medical purposes.
