US B-2 Spirit strategic bombers were involved in attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, a senior US official confirmed to Reuters. The operation, which took place on the night of June 22, 2025, was the first officially acknowledged US involvement in strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure in the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The source said the attacks were aimed at disrupting Tehran's nuclear program, which Washington and Tel Aviv see as a threat to regional security.

The B-2 Spirits, known for their ability to penetrate protected airspace and carry heavy bunker buster bombs, are believed to have targeted hardened sites, including the underground Fordow complex, which is believed to be key to uranium enrichment. While the exact results of the strikes have not been released, Iranian officials have reported damage to several nuclear facilities, while denying significant damage to their program. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has previously confirmed that the recent attacks have affected infrastructure in Iran, but that the radioactive contamination has been contained.

The conflict between Iran and Israel, which escalated in June 2025, has escalated into a series of mutual attacks, including Israeli attacks on Iranian military and nuclear facilities and retaliatory missile attacks by Tehran. The involvement of the United States, Israel’s traditional ally, marks a new stage of escalation, raising the risk of the confrontation escalating into a large-scale regional conflict. According to Western media, Washington has significantly increased its military presence in the region in recent weeks, sending aircraft carriers, fighter jets and air defense systems to the Persian Gulf to protect its bases.

Analysts say the B-2's use underscores the U.S.'s determination to neutralize Iran's nuclear program, but also raises the prospect of Tehran's retaliatory actions. Iran has significantly expanded its missile arsenal and drone strike capabilities in recent years, making it capable of striking regional targets. At the same time, domestic economic difficulties and sanctions limit Tehran's resources for a protracted conflict.