Natanz, Fordow, Isfahan: A Deep Dive into the Bombed Nuclear Facilities

US Attacks on Iran’s Nuclear Sites: A Detailed Breakdown
The recent US military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities have intensified the already volatile situation in the Middle East. President Donald Trump confirmed the attacks, emphasizing their success, particularly at the Fordow enrichment plant. Iran’s state media also acknowledged the strikes, further fueling geopolitical tensions.

Why Were These Sites Targeted?
Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan are central to Iran’s uranium enrichment efforts.
The US and Israel have long suspected Iran of developing nuclear weapons, despite Tehran’s claims of peaceful intentions.
These strikes come after failed diplomatic talks, where the US offered sanctions relief in exchange for Iran halting uranium enrichment.

Key Nuclear Facilities Hit in the Attacks
1. Natanz Uranium Enrichment Facility
Located 220 km southeast of Tehran, Natanz is Iran’s primary uranium enrichment site.
Previously attacked by Israel, the facility had enriched uranium up to 60% purity—close to weapons-grade levels.
The underground section was designed to withstand airstrikes, but past attacks (including Stuxnet cyberattacks) have severely damaged its centrifuges.
2. Fordow Nuclear Plant
Situated 100 km southwest of Tehran, Fordow is a heavily fortified underground facility.
Built secretly in 2007, it was only disclosed to the IAEA in 2009 after Western intelligence uncovered it.
Protected by mountains and anti-aircraft defenses, Fordow can only be destroyed by “bunker buster” bombs like the US’s GBU-57.
3. Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center
Positioned 350 km from Tehran, Isfahan houses nuclear research reactors and laboratories.
It employs thousands of scientists and plays a key role in Iran’s atomic research.

Other Notable Iranian Nuclear Sites (Not Targeted in This Attack)
Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant – Iran’s only commercial reactor, fueled by Russian uranium.
Arak Heavy Water Reactor – Produces plutonium, raising weapons concerns.
Tehran Research Reactor – Modified to use low-enriched uranium to reduce proliferation risks.

Geopolitical Implications
The strikes signal a direct US involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict.
Iran has vowed retaliation, potentially escalating regional tensions further.
The future of nuclear negotiations remains uncertain, with diplomacy collapsing amid military action.


Sample Questions & Answers (FAQs)
1. Why did the US attack Iran’s nuclear facilities?
The US claims Iran was advancing its uranium enrichment program, potentially developing nuclear weapons. The strikes aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
2. Which facility was the main target?
Fordow was the primary focus due to its underground enrichment activities and strategic importance.
3. Has Iran’s nuclear program been peaceful?
Iran insists its program is for civilian energy, but the US and Israel suspect weapons development.
4. What was the Stuxnet virus attack on Natanz?
A US-Israel cyberattack that destroyed Iranian centrifuges in 2010, significantly disrupting uranium enrichment.
5. Will Iran retaliate against the US strikes?
Iran has already launched missiles at Israel and may escalate further, risking a broader regional conflict.