The night when the US hit Iranian nuclear facilities with the B-2 Spirit, no one could imagine that the two American pilots who were executing the operation might be eating noodles made in the microwave, having candy bars and energy drinks and catching short naps on fold-out beds, all while steering the $2 billion stealth bomber.In one of the biggest strikes in years, the US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that American military forces carried out a precise attack on three key nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.But what shocks the world is that these billion dollars worth stealth bombers are not just designed to defeat the world's most advanced air bases, but also to keep the two-person crew functioning and at ease while operating it, as the mission lasts up to two days.Each B-2 carries sleeping arrangements for the pilots, including an in-flight toilet and a fold-out bed.The US did not just care for the crew's sleep, but the stealth bombers also had a microwave, a mini-fridge, rest bunks, candy bars, and whatnot, according to the Independent (UK).Such basic amenities provided for the crew help them remain operational during non-stop 30-40 hour flights from the continental US to distant targets anywhere in the world.Dubbed a "flying hotel", the B-2 bomber has now given warfare new meaning, with its humane living conditions for the crew onboard.<h2>Stealth bomber or a mini hotel?</h2>As the B-2 stealth bombers had to cross multiple time zones, airspace jurisdictions and geopolitical fault lines, to make the pilots comfortable, it had access to toilets, kitchen appliances like microwaves and mini-fridges, and fold beds.As they can access all the amenities, the pilot can sleep for some time while the other can steer. There, they can prepare quick meals, including noodles, pasta, protein bars, and heating in a microwave designed for use at high altitudes and low oxygen environments.According to a report, the B-2 is a war machine where pilots don't just drop bombs, "they live in the sky while doing it".“You’re not just fighting fatigue — you’re making decisions that affect international security, all while being airborne for nearly two days. The small comforts onboard are more than luxury; they’re survival tools," a former B-2 pilot said, according to The Independent.During the strike, the US military used B-2 bombers to make a precise attack on the Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear facilities. It is one of the most advanced strategic weapons platforms, which has the capability of entering sophisticated air defences.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US did not just care for the crew's sleep, but the stealth bombers also had a microwave, a mini-fridge, rest bunks, candy bars, and whatnot, according to the Independent (UK).

The night when the US hit Iranian nuclear facilities with the B-2 Spirit, no one could imagine that the two American pilots who were executing the operation might be eating noodles made in the microwave, having candy bars and energy drinks and catching short naps on fold-out beds, all while steering the $2 billion stealth bomber. In one of the biggest strikes in years, the US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that American military forces carried out a precise attack on three key nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. But what shocks the world is that these billion dollars worth stealth bombers are not just designed to defeat the world's most advanced air bases, but also to keep the two-person crew functioning and at ease while operating it, as the mission lasts up to two days. Each B-2 carries sleeping arrangements for the pilots, including an in-flight toilet and a fold-out bed. The US did not just care for the crew's sleep, but the stealth bombers also had a microwave, a mini-fridge, rest bunks, candy bars, and whatnot, according to the Independent (UK). Such basic amenities provided for the crew help them remain operational during non-stop 30-40 hour flights from the continental US to distant targets anywhere in the world. Dubbed a "flying hotel", the B-2 bomber has now given warfare new meaning, with its humane living conditions for the crew onboard. Stealth bomber or a mini hotel? As the B-2 stealth bombers had to cross multiple time zones, airspace jurisdictions and geopolitical fault lines, to make the pilots comfortable, it had access to toilets, kitchen appliances like microwaves and mini-fridges, and fold beds. As they can access all the amenities, the pilot can sleep for some time while the other can steer. There, they can prepare quick meals, including noodles, pasta, protein bars, and heating in a microwave designed for use at high altitudes and low oxygen environments. According to a report, the B-2 is a war machine where pilots don't just drop bombs, "they live in the sky while doing it". “You’re not just fighting fatigue — you’re making decisions that affect international security, all while being airborne for nearly two days. The small comforts onboard are more than luxury; they’re survival tools," a former B-2 pilot said, according to The Independent. During the strike, the US military used B-2 bombers to make a precise attack on the Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear facilities. It is one of the most advanced strategic weapons platforms, which has the capability of entering sophisticated air defences.

The US did not just care for the crew's sleep, but the stealth bombers also had a microwave, a mini-fridge, rest bunks, candy bars, and whatnot, according to the Independent (UK).

B-2 Bomber or a flying hotel? Stealth bombers US used to attack Iran has bunk beds, noodles, candies and more

In the 1970s, Khan worked at URENCO, a European nuclear consortium based in the Netherlands. There, he accessed classified designs for Zippe-type gas centrifuges, essential for enriching uranium.

In the 1970s, Khan worked at URENCO, a European nuclear consortium based in the Netherlands. There, he accessed classified designs for Zippe-type gas centrifuges, essential for enriching uranium.

This Pakistani physicist ran a dangerous nuclear black market, but how did he supply stolen blueprints to Iran?

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike.&nbsp;The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit.&nbsp;“Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC.“I think there has been damage inside,” he said.&nbsp;Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action.Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.&nbsp;The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier.&nbsp;Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).”&nbsp;While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery.Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity.&nbsp;“Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said.&nbsp;“In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC.A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike. The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit. “Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC. “I think there has been damage inside,” he said. Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds. The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier. Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).” While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery. Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity. “Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said. “In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC. A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

IAEA chief: Machines at Iran’s main enrichment plant at Natanz very likely ‘severely damaged’

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has confirmed that Iran informed the agency about Israeli attacks on two of its nuclear sites, Fordo and Isfahan.Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Grossi said that “parts of the Natanz facility have been destroyed,” including “the above ground plant where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60%.” He added that while there is radiological and chemical contamination inside some facilities, it is “manageable” with the right measures.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-near-khamenei-s-residence-israel-strikes-tehran-s-most-guarded-pasteur-neighbourhood-report-1749854073133">Explosions near Khamenei’s residence: Israel strikes Tehran’s 'most guarded' Pasteur neighbourhood - Report</a><h2>Natanz uranium plant suffers major damage</h2>Grossi confirmed that the Israeli strikes had destroyed the aboveground nuclear fuel production site at Natanz. This plant was responsible for producing uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels.Although the underground enrichment halls at Natanz were not hit directly, attacks on power supply systems may have damaged sensitive equipment such as centrifuges. Grossi said there is no evidence so far of strikes on the underground sections.<h2>What was not hit, and possibly why?</h2>Despite the heavy damage, large parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure remain untouched. Notably, Israel avoided hitting Isfahan in the initial wave of strikes, even though it is home to one of Iran’s largest nuclear complexes and is believed to house much of the country’s near-bomb-grade uranium stockpile.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-intercepted-several-hostile-drones-iran-claims-it-downed-two-israeli-f-35-jets-woman-pilot-captured-1749847324468">‘Fake, baseless’: Israel denies Iran’s claim of downing two F-35 jets, capturing&nbsp;woman&nbsp;pilot</a>Western intelligence agencies have long considered Isfahan a major centre of Iran’s nuclear weapons research. International inspectors believe the site contains crucial material that Iran could use to build a nuclear bomb.By sparing Isfahan, analysts believe Israel may be sending a message while holding back from fully dismantling Iran’s capabilities, at least for now.<h2>Israel targets scientists and infrastructure</h2>Alongside damaging facilities, Israel also targeted Iran’s human resources. A number of top military and nuclear officials were reportedly killed in the attacks. This follows a long-running Israeli strategy aimed at weakening Iran’s nuclear programme by eliminating the expertise required to build a bomb.Still, despite the intense airstrikes, much of Iran’s nuclear material and infrastructure remains operational, raising concerns about what could come next.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Grossi said that “parts of the Natanz facility have been destroyed,” including “the above ground plant where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60%.”

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has confirmed that Iran informed the agency about Israeli attacks on two of its nuclear sites, Fordo and Isfahan. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Grossi said that “parts of the Natanz facility have been destroyed,” including “the above ground plant where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60%.” He added that while there is radiological and chemical contamination inside some facilities, it is “manageable” with the right measures. Also read: Explosions near Khamenei’s residence: Israel strikes Tehran’s 'most guarded' Pasteur neighbourhood - Report Natanz uranium plant suffers major damage Grossi confirmed that the Israeli strikes had destroyed the aboveground nuclear fuel production site at Natanz. This plant was responsible for producing uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels. Although the underground enrichment halls at Natanz were not hit directly, attacks on power supply systems may have damaged sensitive equipment such as centrifuges. Grossi said there is no evidence so far of strikes on the underground sections. What was not hit, and possibly why? Despite the heavy damage, large parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure remain untouched. Notably, Israel avoided hitting Isfahan in the initial wave of strikes, even though it is home to one of Iran’s largest nuclear complexes and is believed to house much of the country’s near-bomb-grade uranium stockpile. Also read: ‘Fake, baseless’: Israel denies Iran’s claim of downing two F-35 jets, capturing woman pilot Western intelligence agencies have long considered Isfahan a major centre of Iran’s nuclear weapons research. International inspectors believe the site contains crucial material that Iran could use to build a nuclear bomb. By sparing Isfahan, analysts believe Israel may be sending a message while holding back from fully dismantling Iran’s capabilities, at least for now. Israel targets scientists and infrastructure Alongside damaging facilities, Israel also targeted Iran’s human resources. A number of top military and nuclear officials were reportedly killed in the attacks. This follows a long-running Israeli strategy aimed at weakening Iran’s nuclear programme by eliminating the expertise required to build a bomb. Still, despite the intense airstrikes, much of Iran’s nuclear material and infrastructure remains operational, raising concerns about what could come next.

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Grossi said that “parts of the Natanz facility have been destroyed,” including “the above-ground plant where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60%.”

Israel's Operation Rising Lion struck Iran's nuclear facilities, but is Tehran's nuclear effort still intact?

Following the pre-emptive air strikes, Iran remains defiant in its pursuit of nuclear power, underscoring not just its resilience but also doubling down with its rhetoric, claiming it as its ‘sovereign right’ to nuclear enrichment and missile power.&nbsp;"One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," Iran declared, “The world now better understands Iran’s insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.”While this seems like the usual rhetoric from Iran but the timing, tone, and consequences of this declaration point to a significant escalation in the region.<h2>Iran ditching the diplomatic playbook</h2>For years, Iran has walked a thin line between its nuclear ambitions and, at the same time, insisting it was committed to peaceful energy use, by remaining a party to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)But this latest statement is devoid of any diplomatic pretence. Instead, it embraces an unambiguous and confrontational assertion, one that leaves the talks in Oman in the dark. Iran will pursue its nuclear plans as a national right but not as a diplomatic concession; furthermore, its refusal to comment on the diplomatic talks with the United States hints at the end of the era of nuclear negotiation, as it is approaching weapon-grade uranium enrichment.&nbsp;This comes as a response to Israel's covert and overt operations in Iran, which targeted 100 nuclear and military sites, and killed several top leaders in its armed forces. The air strike, which had used US intelligence, had outraged Iran. Though the United States maintain the strike was unilateral from Israel, it has claimed awareness about the planning of the same. US President Donald Trump has changed his tone from professing caution and restraint to Israel to pride and praise of its military excellence, which leaves little room for the resumption of the talks.&nbsp;This should raise concern across the world, as Iran is not just any simple nation; it is a theocratic state which believes it has a divine right to rule. It poses as the leader of the Islamic world, but this rhetoric is not just for deterrence but of ideological conviction and narrative dominance. Tehran's bold posture will embolden its proxies like Hezbollah, Houthi, Iraqi Militia and Hamas and will destabilise the region.More than anything, this implies a strategic failure or at least a setback for the United States' foreign policies, which failed to contain Iran diplomatically. Israel is acting independently, and possibly with U.S. approval, even if it's unofficial. For critics, US policy is more reactive than strategic. The US perceived Iran as weak, and it might remain silent or retaliate slowly; instead, it took the situation to silently exit the JCPOA.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran has declared its unwavering right to nuclear and missile capabilities, rejecting diplomacy and signaling a hardline shift. This bold stance raises fears of regional escalation and global fallout.

Following the pre-emptive air strikes, Iran remains defiant in its pursuit of nuclear power, underscoring not just its resilience but also doubling down with its rhetoric, claiming it as its ‘sovereign right’ to nuclear enrichment and missile power. "One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," Iran declared, “The world now better understands Iran’s insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.” While this seems like the usual rhetoric from Iran but the timing, tone, and consequences of this declaration point to a significant escalation in the region. Iran ditching the diplomatic playbook For years, Iran has walked a thin line between its nuclear ambitions and, at the same time, insisting it was committed to peaceful energy use, by remaining a party to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) But this latest statement is devoid of any diplomatic pretence. Instead, it embraces an unambiguous and confrontational assertion, one that leaves the talks in Oman in the dark. Iran will pursue its nuclear plans as a national right but not as a diplomatic concession; furthermore, its refusal to comment on the diplomatic talks with the United States hints at the end of the era of nuclear negotiation, as it is approaching weapon-grade uranium enrichment. This comes as a response to Israel's covert and overt operations in Iran, which targeted 100 nuclear and military sites, and killed several top leaders in its armed forces. The air strike, which had used US intelligence, had outraged Iran. Though the United States maintain the strike was unilateral from Israel, it has claimed awareness about the planning of the same. US President Donald Trump has changed his tone from professing caution and restraint to Israel to pride and praise of its military excellence, which leaves little room for the resumption of the talks. This should raise concern across the world, as Iran is not just any simple nation; it is a theocratic state which believes it has a divine right to rule. It poses as the leader of the Islamic world, but this rhetoric is not just for deterrence but of ideological conviction and narrative dominance. Tehran's bold posture will embolden its proxies like Hezbollah, Houthi, Iraqi Militia and Hamas and will destabilise the region. More than anything, this implies a strategic failure or at least a setback for the United States' foreign policies, which failed to contain Iran diplomatically. Israel is acting independently, and possibly with U.S. approval, even if it's unofficial. For critics, US policy is more reactive than strategic. The US perceived Iran as weak, and it might remain silent or retaliate slowly; instead, it took the situation to silently exit the JCPOA.

Iran has declared its unwavering right to nuclear and missile capabilities, rejecting diplomacy and signalling a hardline shift. This bold stance raises fears of regional escalation and global fallout.

Iran remains defiant for nuclear power, ditching diplomatic playbook

In 2003, Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi gave up the nation's decade-old nuclear programme in exchange for normalisation with the West and lifting of US sanctions, but in 2011, he was dragged through the streets in the civil war as NATO forces encircled the air in Libya. Post-Gaddafi Libya turned to anarchy, extremism, and eventually collapsed.&nbsp;Nearly a decade before that, Saddam Hussein was forced to relinquish his Weapons of Mass Destruction; however, in 2003, Bush administration went with tanks rolling into Baghdad on false WMD pretences and within days, his regime collapsed.<h2>These precedents loom large over Iran</h2>Israel on June 13 launched a preemptive strike, which it calls “Operation Rising Lion”, unleashing waves of air attacks and supported by Mossad-backed sabotage across 100 nuclear and military sites in Iran. The strikes reportedly killed Iran's Revolutionary Guard commander Hossein Salami, the chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, and several nuclear scientists, while Iran launched more than 100 drones in retaliation.The strike reportedly hit Natnaz nuclear site, although the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed no immediate radiation leaks, but global alarms have sounded.Iran has reportedly come closer than ever to enriching its Uranium stockpile to 90 per cent, this had agitated Israel, which perceives Iran as an existential threat and used this argument to justify its strike in Iran. The US government has denied its involvement in the attacks; however, it confirmed that it was informed about Israel's intentions of carrying out the attack. It has repeatedly warned Iran that any attack on US personnel and infrastructure will lead to escalation.&nbsp;<h2>Diplomacy at the crossroads</h2>US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that Iran can't have a nuclear bomb. “… We are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back,” said Donald Trump. The sixth round of talks between the US and Iran is scheduled on June 15 in Oman. It was supposedly a critical opportunity to de-escalate Iran's nuclear ambitions, in exchange for limited sanction relief and dialogue in the region.&nbsp;On June 12, the IAEA's board formally censured Iran first time in two decades, as it has failed to explain “undeclared nuclear material and activities” in multiple nuclear facilities. According to IAEA reports, Iran has increased its stockpile of near-weapons-grade material by at least 50 per cent since February.In response to the censure, Iran has announced a new secret enrichment site and more advanced centrifuges, hinting at a possible withdrawal from IAEA commitments.&nbsp;Some analysts say these strikes might backfire; Iran now has every reason to go nuclear, not just to build the bomb, but to show that they won't be bullied into submission.&nbsp;The US strongly opposes Iran’s nuclear arms potential; supports diplomacy, but is preparing for conflict if needed. The EU believes that Iran is breaching its nuclear agreement, but wants diplomacy and to seal off sanctions.<h2>Between history and hypocrisy</h2>When Muammar Gaddafi was being ousted, it was not for security reasons that NATO forces invaded Libya. Inspired by the Arab Spring, protests erupted in Libya against Gaddafi's 42-year rule. Gaddafi violently quashed the rebels. NATO forces took legal authorisation from the United Nations to protect civilians in Libya, basically legalising military intervention. It coordinated with rebel forces to overthrow Gaddafi. Gaddafi tried using Libya's voluntary disarmament to convince NATO to cease its operations. But it didn't help. Gaddafi's son, Saif and others in Libya's government expressed their regret over nuclear disarmament. The U.S., U.K., France, and allies took the lead in bombing Gaddafi’s forces. After the death of Gaddafi, Libya descended into chaos. NATO had no plans for post-Gaddafi Libya.&nbsp;Similarly, in Iraq, after the 1991 Gulf War, under the restrictions from the IAEA and United Nations Special Commission, Nuclear Weapons were dismantled. There was no proof of Weapons of Mass Destruction when the United States tanks were in Baghdad. Till now, in 2025, the US has not provided any evidence that justifies the invasion of Iraq. The nuclear claim became the central failure of US intelligence and the justification for a war that led to Iraq’s collapse.The cases of Iraq and Libya remain a powerful argument for Iran; those who surrender have faced the destruction of their regime. Iran itself had witnessed a democratically elected government of Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953, overthrown by the CIA- and MI6-backed coup. "Operation Ajax" installed a monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, to protect the oil interests of the US and the UK. This must have been embedded in the historical memory of the Iranian people, which later moved to theocracy following the Islamic revolution. These memories of Iran, along with the mistrust of President Trump walking away from the deal in 2018, have given Iran every reason to pursue nuclear weapons, not just as a deterrence but as an insurance.&nbsp;Iran faces a somewhat similar situation to Iraq and Libya, even if it agrees to nuclear disarmament and transparency, it will not guarantee Iran protection from regime change, sanctions or a military coup. In contrast, North Korea is still standing firm under the immense pressure from the US and the EU despite not agreeing to disarmament. But if Iran continues with its nuclear enrichment programme, it will have to face these pre-emptive strikes.&nbsp;As the US President Trump puts it aptly, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World and Israel has a lot of it...And they know how to use it.”&nbsp;

In the wake of Israel's June 13 strike on Iranian nuclear sites, this analysis explores how past U.S.-led interventions in Libya and Iraq shape Iran's nuclear stance today. With diplomacy faltering, history, mistrust, and survival instincts are pushing Iran toward the bomb.

In 2003, Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi gave up the nation's decade-old nuclear programme in exchange for normalisation with the West and lifting of US sanctions, but in 2011, he was dragged through the streets in the civil war as NATO forces encircled the air in Libya. Post-Gaddafi Libya turned to anarchy, extremism, and eventually collapsed. Nearly a decade before that, Saddam Hussein was forced to relinquish his Weapons of Mass Destruction; however, in 2003, Bush administration went with tanks rolling into Baghdad on false WMD pretences and within days, his regime collapsed. These precedents loom large over Iran Israel on June 13 launched a preemptive strike, which it calls “Operation Rising Lion”, unleashing waves of air attacks and supported by Mossad-backed sabotage across 100 nuclear and military sites in Iran. The strikes reportedly killed Iran's Revolutionary Guard commander Hossein Salami, the chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, and several nuclear scientists, while Iran launched more than 100 drones in retaliation. The strike reportedly hit Natnaz nuclear site, although the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed no immediate radiation leaks, but global alarms have sounded. Iran has reportedly come closer than ever to enriching its Uranium stockpile to 90 per cent, this had agitated Israel, which perceives Iran as an existential threat and used this argument to justify its strike in Iran. The US government has denied its involvement in the attacks; however, it confirmed that it was informed about Israel's intentions of carrying out the attack. It has repeatedly warned Iran that any attack on US personnel and infrastructure will lead to escalation. Diplomacy at the crossroads US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that Iran can't have a nuclear bomb. “… We are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back,” said Donald Trump. The sixth round of talks between the US and Iran is scheduled on June 15 in Oman. It was supposedly a critical opportunity to de-escalate Iran's nuclear ambitions, in exchange for limited sanction relief and dialogue in the region. On June 12, the IAEA's board formally censured Iran first time in two decades, as it has failed to explain “undeclared nuclear material and activities” in multiple nuclear facilities. According to IAEA reports, Iran has increased its stockpile of near-weapons-grade material by at least 50 per cent since February. In response to the censure, Iran has announced a new secret enrichment site and more advanced centrifuges, hinting at a possible withdrawal from IAEA commitments. Some analysts say these strikes might backfire; Iran now has every reason to go nuclear, not just to build the bomb, but to show that they won't be bullied into submission. The US strongly opposes Iran’s nuclear arms potential; supports diplomacy, but is preparing for conflict if needed. The EU believes that Iran is breaching its nuclear agreement, but wants diplomacy and to seal off sanctions. Between history and hypocrisy When Muammar Gaddafi was being ousted, it was not for security reasons that NATO forces invaded Libya. Inspired by the Arab Spring, protests erupted in Libya against Gaddafi's 42-year rule. Gaddafi violently quashed the rebels. NATO forces took legal authorisation from the United Nations to protect civilians in Libya, basically legalising military intervention. It coordinated with rebel forces to overthrow Gaddafi. Gaddafi tried using Libya's voluntary disarmament to convince NATO to cease its operations. But it didn't help. Gaddafi's son, Saif and others in Libya's government expressed their regret over nuclear disarmament. The U.S., U.K., France, and allies took the lead in bombing Gaddafi’s forces. After the death of Gaddafi, Libya descended into chaos. NATO had no plans for post-Gaddafi Libya. Similarly, in Iraq, after the 1991 Gulf War, under the restrictions from the IAEA and United Nations Special Commission, Nuclear Weapons were dismantled. There was no proof of Weapons of Mass Destruction when the United States tanks were in Baghdad. Till now, in 2025, the US has not provided any evidence that justifies the invasion of Iraq. The nuclear claim became the central failure of US intelligence and the justification for a war that led to Iraq’s collapse. The cases of Iraq and Libya remain a powerful argument for Iran; those who surrender have faced the destruction of their regime. Iran itself had witnessed a democratically elected government of Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953, overthrown by the CIA- and MI6-backed coup. "Operation Ajax" installed a monarch, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, to protect the oil interests of the US and the UK. This must have been embedded in the historical memory of the Iranian people, which later moved to theocracy following the Islamic revolution. These memories of Iran, along with the mistrust of President Trump walking away from the deal in 2018, have given Iran every reason to pursue nuclear weapons, not just as a deterrence but as an insurance. Iran faces a somewhat similar situation to Iraq and Libya, even if it agrees to nuclear disarmament and transparency, it will not guarantee Iran protection from regime change, sanctions or a military coup. In contrast, North Korea is still standing firm under the immense pressure from the US and the EU despite not agreeing to disarmament. But if Iran continues with its nuclear enrichment programme, it will have to face these pre-emptive strikes. As the US President Trump puts it aptly, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World and Israel has a lot of it...And they know how to use it.”

In the wake of Israel's June 13 strike on Iranian nuclear sites, this analysis explores how past U.S.-led interventions in Libya and Iraq shape Iran's nuclear stance today. With diplomacy faltering, history, mistrust, and survival instincts are pushing Iran toward the bomb.

Inside Iran's nuclear dilemma- What lessons did it learn from Iraq and Libya?

China might be on its way to dispatch two cargo vessels filled with ingredient for missile propellant to Iran in coming weeks, according to a report by Financial Times. The report, which cites intelligence officials from two Western nations, comes days after the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th US president, who considers the Shi&rsquo;ite nation as a major security threat.
The report highlighted that the transaction of sensitive material may expose the Chinese entities to US sanctions. The two Iranian vessels already face US sanctions aimed at crippling Tehran&rsquo;s weapons programmes.
<h2>The ingredient</h2>
The vessels, identified as the Golbon and the Jairan, will reportedly be ferrying 1,000 tonnes of sodium perchlorate from China to Iran. The element can be used to make ammonium perchlorate, the main ingredient for solid propellant for missiles.
Due to its high usability in missile programmes, ammonium perchlorate features among the few elements governed by the Missile Technology Export Control Regime.
According to the report, the ingredients can help Iran generate 1,300 tonnes of propellant, which could fuel 260 mid-range Iranian missiles.
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The report added that while the Golbon had already been loaded with sodium perchlorate and was located off the coast of Ningbo in China&rsquo;s Zhejiang early Wednesday, the Jairan might depart China in early February. Both ships will reportedly arrive in Iran after a three-week voyage, without making any port calls.
<h2>Is Chinese government involved in the shipping?</h2>
The FT report said it was not clear whether Beijing knew about the said shipments.
Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said China always abides by its export control laws as well as the country's international obligations. He added that Beijing had always opposed such illegal unilateral sanctions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-vows-600-billion-trade-to-us-president-donald-trump-8648330">Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman vows $600bn in trade, investments to Donald Trump</a>
Responding to the report, a senior US State Department was quoted by Reuters as saying that the shipment may be exposed to US sanctions if the missiles by Iran were designed to be used by Russia in Ukraine.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The vessels, identified as the Golbon and the Jairan, will reportedly be ferrying 1,000 tonnes of sodium perchlorate from China to Iran.

China might be on its way to dispatch two cargo vessels filled with ingredient for missile propellant to Iran in coming weeks, according to a report by Financial Times. The report, which cites intelligence officials from two Western nations, comes days after the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th US president, who considers the Shi’ite nation as a major security threat. The report highlighted that the transaction of sensitive material may expose the Chinese entities to US sanctions. The two Iranian vessels already face US sanctions aimed at crippling Tehran’s weapons programmes. The ingredient The vessels, identified as the Golbon and the Jairan, will reportedly be ferrying 1,000 tonnes of sodium perchlorate from China to Iran. The element can be used to make ammonium perchlorate, the main ingredient for solid propellant for missiles. Due to its high usability in missile programmes, ammonium perchlorate features among the few elements governed by the Missile Technology Export Control Regime. According to the report, the ingredients can help Iran generate 1,300 tonnes of propellant, which could fuel 260 mid-range Iranian missiles. Also read: Pakistan government cracks down on social media, introduces law to block platforms, imprison users for spreading 'disinformation’ The report added that while the Golbon had already been loaded with sodium perchlorate and was located off the coast of Ningbo in China’s Zhejiang early Wednesday, the Jairan might depart China in early February. Both ships will reportedly arrive in Iran after a three-week voyage, without making any port calls. Is Chinese government involved in the shipping? The FT report said it was not clear whether Beijing knew about the said shipments. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said China always abides by its export control laws as well as the country's international obligations. He added that Beijing had always opposed such illegal unilateral sanctions. Also read: Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman vows $600bn in trade, investments to Donald Trump Responding to the report, a senior US State Department was quoted by Reuters as saying that the shipment may be exposed to US sanctions if the missiles by Iran were designed to be used by Russia in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese entities sneakily shipping key missile ingredient to Iran: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first speech after the US election, criticised the Biden administration for its policies and judgement regarding Israel's ongoing war against Hamas, Iran and its proxies.&nbsp;

Speaking at the Knesset plenum on Monday (Nov. 18), Netanyahu said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah,” The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-killed-in-anti-gang-operation-after-looting-of-aid-convey-gaza-ministry-777213">20 killed in anti-'gang' operation after looting of aid convoy: Gaza ministry</a>

“President Biden told me that if we go in, we will be alone. He also said that he would stop shipments of important weapons to us. And so he did. A few days later, Blinken appeared and repeated the same things and I told him we will fight with our nails," the Israeli PM was reported saying.&nbsp;

Netanyahu further criticised the US response after Iran's drone and missile attacks on Israel.&nbsp;

“Again, we were told by our friend that there is no need to respond. And I said that sitting and not reacting is not acceptable, and we responded," The Times of Israel reported Netanyahu saying.&nbsp;

<h2>'A specific component damaged'</h2>

Netanyahu further claimed in his speech that Israel's late October attack on Iran damaged "a specific component" of the Islamic Republic's nuclear programme. 
 
The PM said that the Israeli counterattack last month inflicted real damage on Iran’s ballistic missile production capability,&nbsp;and also affected its nuclear programme. 
&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-alleges-biden-of-risking-start-of-world-war-iii-by-giving-missile-permission-to-ukraine-777097">Russia says Biden 'risking start of World War III' by giving missile permission to Ukraine</a>

“It’s not a secret, it has been published&nbsp;that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament.

He further added&nbsp;that Iran’s plan for a nuclear weapon is still on. “We’ve delayed it… but it has progressed. Iran has advanced its enrichment.&nbsp;The imperative to stop Iran’s march to the bomb is on us,” he said.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first speech after the US election, criticised the Biden administration for its policies and judgement regarding Israel's ongoing war against Hamas, Iran and its proxies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first speech after the US election, criticised the Biden administration for its policies and judgement regarding Israel's ongoing war against Hamas, Iran and its proxies. Speaking at the Knesset plenum on Monday (Nov. 18), Netanyahu said, “The US had reservations and suggested that we not enter Gaza. It had reservations about entering Gaza City, Khan Younis, and, most critically, strongly opposed entry into Rafah,” The Times of Israel reported. Also read | 20 killed in anti-'gang' operation after looting of aid convoy: Gaza ministry “President Biden told me that if we go in, we will be alone. He also said that he would stop shipments of important weapons to us. And so he did. A few days later, Blinken appeared and repeated the same things and I told him we will fight with our nails," the Israeli PM was reported saying. Netanyahu further criticised the US response after Iran's drone and missile attacks on Israel. “Again, we were told by our friend that there is no need to respond. And I said that sitting and not reacting is not acceptable, and we responded," The Times of Israel reported Netanyahu saying. 'A specific component damaged' Netanyahu further claimed in his speech that Israel's late October attack on Iran damaged "a specific component" of the Islamic Republic's nuclear programme. The PM said that the Israeli counterattack last month inflicted real damage on Iran’s ballistic missile production capability, and also affected its nuclear programme. Also read | Russia says Biden 'risking start of World War III' by giving missile permission to Ukraine “It’s not a secret, it has been published that a certain component of their nuclear programme was hit in this attack," Netanyahu told the Israeli parliament. He further added that Iran’s plan for a nuclear weapon is still on. “We’ve delayed it… but it has progressed. Iran has advanced its enrichment. The imperative to stop Iran’s march to the bomb is on us,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu criticises Biden admin’s policies, says attack damaged Iran's nuke programme

Amidst stalled talks over Iran nuclear deal, Tehran has announced activation of hundred of new generation Uranium enrichment, a mandatory process to create effective nuclear fuel.

Iran steps up its nuclear programme after US sanctions

Amid tensions over Iran's nuclear programme, the United States has reportedly refused to speed up the delivery of two tanker aircraft to Israel.

US rejects Israeli request for tanker aircraft as Iran plans advance

Iran and Israel: From allies to deadly enemies

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on an international network of companies and their agents it said were involved in the procurement of materials for Iran's nuclear programme.

They are the first punitive steps by Washington since Tehran announced earlier this month it would increase its levels of enriched uranium that can be used for bomb fuel.

Tehran announced on July 1 that it had amassed more low-enriched uranium than permitted under its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, marking its first major step beyond the terms of the pact since the United States withdrew more than a year ago.

"Treasury is taking action to shut down an Iranian nuclear procurement network that leverages Chinese- and Belgium-based front companies to acquire critical nuclear materials and benefit the regime's malign ambitions," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

"Iran cannot claim benign intent on the world stage while it purchases and stockpiled products for centrifuges," he added.

The US&nbsp;Treasury said the companies acted as a procurement network for Iran's Centrifuge Technology Company, or TESA, which plays a pivotal in Iran's uranium enrichment nuclear programme through the production of centrifuges used in facilities belonging to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran.

The blacklist includes Mohammad Fakhrzadeh, a commercial director for TESA. The US&nbsp;Treasury accused him of coordinating the purchase of "various Chinese aluminium goods that are associated with Iranian centrifuge components."

Bakhtar Raad Sepahan, an Iranian firm with a Belgium unit, TAWU BVBA, is accused of facilitating deals for the purchase of hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of Chinese-origin aluminium products and their shipment from China to Iran on behalf of TESA.

Also blacklisted is TAWU BVBA's managing director, Sohayl Talebi, who the US&nbsp;Treasury said had an extensive background in metallurgical engineering.

It said China-based Henan Jiayuan Aluminium Industry was contracted to sell aluminium goods worth more than $500,000, including NSG-controlled items, to TAWU BVBA for use by TESA.

The U.S. Treasury also sanctioned Iran-heaquartered Sabz Co, accusing it of sales to TESA of alloy parts worth tens of thousands of dollars. It clinched deals with Chinese companies to purchase metal materials for end-use by TESA, the Treasury added.

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on an international network of companies and their agents it said were involved in the procurement of materials for Iran's nuclear programme.

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on an international network of companies and their agents it said were involved in the procurement of materials for Iran's nuclear programme. They are the first punitive steps by Washington since Tehran announced earlier this month it would increase its levels of enriched uranium that can be used for bomb fuel. Tehran announced on July 1 that it had amassed more low-enriched uranium than permitted under its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, marking its first major step beyond the terms of the pact since the United States withdrew more than a year ago. "Treasury is taking action to shut down an Iranian nuclear procurement network that leverages Chinese- and Belgium-based front companies to acquire critical nuclear materials and benefit the regime's malign ambitions," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "Iran cannot claim benign intent on the world stage while it purchases and stockpiled products for centrifuges," he added. The US Treasury said the companies acted as a procurement network for Iran's Centrifuge Technology Company, or TESA, which plays a pivotal in Iran's uranium enrichment nuclear programme through the production of centrifuges used in facilities belonging to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. The blacklist includes Mohammad Fakhrzadeh, a commercial director for TESA. The US Treasury accused him of coordinating the purchase of "various Chinese aluminium goods that are associated with Iranian centrifuge components." Bakhtar Raad Sepahan, an Iranian firm with a Belgium unit, TAWU BVBA, is accused of facilitating deals for the purchase of hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of Chinese-origin aluminium products and their shipment from China to Iran on behalf of TESA. Also blacklisted is TAWU BVBA's managing director, Sohayl Talebi, who the US Treasury said had an extensive background in metallurgical engineering. It said China-based Henan Jiayuan Aluminium Industry was contracted to sell aluminium goods worth more than $500,000, including NSG-controlled items, to TAWU BVBA for use by TESA. The U.S. Treasury also sanctioned Iran-heaquartered Sabz Co, accusing it of sales to TESA of alloy parts worth tens of thousands of dollars. It clinched deals with Chinese companies to purchase metal materials for end-use by TESA, the Treasury added.

US sanctions network selling materials for Iran nuclear programme