
On June 22, 2025, the United States launched airstrikes targeting three key nuclear sites in Iran: Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. These strikes were the most violent military actions under President Donald Trump’s administration, purportedly inflicting “monumental damage” on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. However, subsequent satellite images and expert analysis have questioned the actual scale of destruction.
In response, Iran’s parliament swiftly approved a measure to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route through which over 20% of the world’s oil passes daily. This decision has raised global alarm due to the strait’s essential role in international energy supplies.
Iran’s military issued a stern warning to President Trump, labeling him a “gambler” and vowing to bring the conflict to an end. Simultaneously, Israel reportedly intensified its strikes on Iranian military targets, further escalating tensions in the region.
The U.S. involvement has drawn various international reactions:
- China criticized the U.S., calling into question its credibility.
- Pakistan condemned the strikes, despite previously praising Trump’s peace efforts in South Asia.
Concerns about safety have led shipping companies, especially those from Japan, to minimize their vessels’ time in the Gulf. This precaution has contributed to a surge in oil prices worldwide, reflecting widespread fear of prolonged disruption to supplies.
The crisis extends beyond conventional warfare, with Washington tightening security measures and monitoring potential cyber threats. As global tensions rise, the international community watches anxiously, uncertain about Iran’s next moves and the broader economic impact of this escalating conflict.