On June 23, 2025, the new commander of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Amir Hatami, made a tough statement, promising the United States a “decisive response” to missile and bomb strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. As reported by The Times of Israel, citing Iranian media, Hatami emphasized that Tehran has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to resist and intends to continue this line. The statement came amid growing tensions in the Middle East following the US attack on facilities in Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan, which, according to US President Donald Trump, “destroyed Iran’s nuclear capabilities.”

According to information presented at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on June 22, the US Air Force, using B-2A Spirit stealth bombers, struck key Iranian nuclear infrastructure facilities on the night of June 21. Trump called the operation a “preventive measure” to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, saying the damage to the facilities was “monumental.” However, the Iranian foreign minister described the attack as a “gross violation of the UN Charter and international law,” stressing that it would have “eternal consequences.” Iran reserves the right to self-defense, which experts say could include both direct military action and asymmetric attacks through Tehran-backed groups.

General Khatami, recently appointed commander-in-chief after a reorganization of the military leadership, emphasized Iran's historical resilience.

“We have always given a decisive rebuff to aggressors and will continue to do so,” — Tasnim quotes him.

He also hinted at the possibility of coordinating with allies, although specific details were not disclosed. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had previously said the country had "no intention of surrendering" and was prepared to inflict "irreparable damage" if further attacks occurred.

The international reaction to the escalation has been highly polarized. Russia and China have condemned the US actions as “irresponsible” and “violating international law.” Russia’s UN ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said the attack had opened a “Pandora’s box” with global implications. Meanwhile, Israel, whose intelligence is believed to have underpinned the US operation, has expressed full support for the strikes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said “the threat of the Iranian nuclear program has been eliminated.”