U.S., Israel Conduct Airstrikes on Iranian Nuclear, Steel Sites

Israeli air strikes targeted infrastructure linked to Iran’s civilian nuclear energy production and uranium enrichment, with smoke seen rising from the Arak heavy-water plant and explosions observed in Isfahan, home to key nuclear facilities, as per multiple reports.

The U.S. and Israel conducted strikes on Iranian nuclear and steel facilities on Friday, according to Iranian state media, as Iran launched retaliatory actions across the Persian Gulf. Markets reacted to concerns over the potential economic impact of the escalation.

Iranian reports said the strikes targeted a heavy water research reactor at the Arak nuclear complex, a yellowcake production plant in Yazd province, and two of the country’s largest steelmakers.

The Associated Press reported that a strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia left at least 10 U.S. troops wounded, including two seriously, and damaged refueling aircraft.

In Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned of a response following the strikes. In a post on X, he said Israel had targeted two major steel factories, a power plant, and civilian nuclear sites, and claimed the attacks were conducted with U.S. support.

“Israel has hit 2 of Iran's largest steel factories, a power plant and civilian nuclear sites among other infrastructure. Israel claims it acted in coordination with the U.S.,” Araqchi said.

“Attack contradicts POTUS extended deadline for diplomacy,” he added. “Iran will exact HEAVY price for Israeli crimes."

According to Iranian accounts, the strikes followed a military campaign launched by the U.S. and Israel after the assassination of Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and several senior military commanders and civilians on February 28. Iranian sources said the campaign involved airstrikes on military and civilian locations, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage.

Iranian Armed Forces have since conducted retaliatory operations targeting U.S. and Israeli positions in the region, including reported missile and drone strikes on bases and locations in the occupied territories.