On June 22, the United States launched Operation Midnight Hammer, a precision airstrike targeting three of Iran’s most sensitive nuclear facilities: Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan. Using B-2 stealth bombers, Tomahawk cruise missiles and bunker-buster bombs, the strike inflicted substantial damage to Iran’s uranium enrichment infrastructure.

Above-ground buildings, including advanced centrifuge assembly plants, were heavily damaged or destroyed. Yet Iran’s deeply buried enrichment halls, located up to 80 meters underground — especially at Fordow and Natanz — remained largely intact. The International Atomic Energy Agency estimates that Iran retains approximately 60 to 70% of its uranium enrichment capacity. The strikes were a significant setback but far from a decisive end to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

In response, on June 23, Iran launched ballistic missiles at the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, one of America’s largest military hubs in the Middle East. Tehran provided advance warning, allowing Qatari and U.S. air defenses to intercept nearly all incoming missiles. The attack caused no casualties and only minimal damage. This measured retaliation reflected the complex calculus faced by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei — balancing the need to show strength to his domestic audience while avoiding steps that might provoke further U.S. strikes on Iran’s remaining nuclear sites.

Tensions were further heightened by the fact that President Donald Trump authorized the U.S. strikes without seeking congressional approval, signaling a readiness to act swiftly and decisively, with few political constraints. This unpredictability added pressure on Tehran to tread carefully.

Amid this precarious situation, a significant diplomatic breakthrough has emerged. Regional mediators — including Oman, Qatar and key European partners — have renewed efforts to facilitate dialogue among Washington, Tehran and Israel. President Trump announced on Truth Social that Iran and Israel have agreed to a phased ceasefire, marking a very helpful development after years of hostility.

According to Trump’s announcement, the ceasefire is structured in two 12-hour phases: Iran will begin by halting hostilities for 12 hours, followed by a reciprocal 12-hour cessation from Israel, culminating in a full ceasefire. Qatar has played an active role in coordinating these talks and helping broker the agreement.

What was a tense and unstable standoff just days ago is now giving way to cautious but steady progress toward peace. The current momentum offers hope for a new nuclear agreement — one potentially stronger and more enforceable than the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, from which the U.S. withdrew in 2018.

This moment remains delicate, but it shows how precise military action, paired with persistent diplomacy, can create an opening for lasting stability. The challenge ahead is to maintain this progress through transparent communication, mutual respect and rigorous verification.

If these efforts hold, what began as a confrontation may well become the foundation for a new chapter — one defined by dialogue, cooperation and a safer future for the region.