Congolese customs worker refused a bribe to give spoiled rice to the poor. He is beatified by Vatican

ROME — The Vatican has beatified a Congolese customs worker who was killed for resisting a bribe, giving young people in a place with endemic corruption a new model of holiness: someone who refused to allow spoiled rice to be distributed to poor people.
The head of the Vatican's saint-making office, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, presided over Sunday's beatification ceremony of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi at one of the pontifical basilicas in Rome, St. Paul Outside the Walls.
The event attracted a cheering crowd of Congolese pilgrims and much of Rome's Congolese Catholic community, who were to be treated to a special audience Monday with Pope Leo XIV.
The faithful wore T-shirts and vests with Kositi's portrait and erupted in chants and applause as soon as the beatification ceremony was concluded, waving Congolese flags.
Kositi was kidnapped and killed in 2007 after he refused to allow rancid rice from Rwanda to be transported across the border to the eastern Congolese city of Goma.
As an official with the Congolese government's customs quality control office, the 26-year-old knew the risks of resisting bribes offered to public officials. But he also knew the risks of allowing spoiled food to be distributed to the most desperate.
'On that day, those mafiosi found themselves in front of a young man who, in the name of the Gospel, said 'No.' He opposed,' his friend Aline Manani said. 'And Floribert, I think that for me personally, I would say for all young people, is a role model.'
Pope Francis recognized Kositi as a martyr of the faith late last year, setting him on the path to beatification and to possibly become Congo's first saint. The move fit into the pope's broader understanding of martyr as a social justice concept, allowing those deemed to have been killed for doing God's work and following the Gospel to be considered for sainthood.
'Our country almost holds the gold medal for corruption among the countries of the world,' Goma Bishop Willy Ngumbi told reporters last week. 'Here, corruption is truly endemic. So, if we could at least learn from this boy's life that we must all fight corruption … I think that would be very important.'
Transparency International last year gave Congo one of the poorest marks on its corruption perception index, ranking it 163 out of 180 countries surveyed and 20 on the organization's 0-to-100 scale, with 0 highly corrupt and 100 very clean.
The beatification has brought joy to Goma at a time of anguish. Violent fighting between government forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has led to the death of thousands of people, and the rebels' capture of the city has exacerbated what already was one of the world's biggest humanitarian crises.
It has renewed the hopes of many in the country of more than 100 million whose development has been stifled by chronic corruption, which Francis railed against during his 2023 visit to the country.
Speaking at the Kinshasa stadium then, Francis said Kositi 'could easily have turned a blind eye; nobody would have found out, and he might even have gotten ahead as a result. But since he was a Christian, he prayed. He thought of others and he chose to be honest, saying no to the filth of corruption.'
The Italian priest who spearheaded Kositi's sainthood case, the Rev. Francesco Tedeschi, knew him through their work with the Community of Sant'Egidio. He broke down Saturday as he recounted Kositi's example and Francis' call for the church to recognize the ordinary holiness in the 'saints next door.'
'In the end, this was what Floribert was, because he was just a boy,' Tedeschi said as he began weeping.
At Goma's Floribert Bwana Chui School of Peace, which is named in honor of Kositi and advocates for social justice, his beatification is encouraging all those who view him as a role model, school director Charles Kalimba told the Associated Press.
'It's a lesson for every generation, for the next generation, for the present generation and for all people. Floribert's life is a positive point that must be presented to the Congolese nation. We are in a country where corruption is almost allowed, and this is a challenge that must be taken up,' Kalimba said.
Tedeschi said the martyr designation recognized that Kositi died out of hatred toward his faith, because his decision to not accept the spoiled food was inspired by the Christian idea of the dignity of everyone, especially the poor.
Being declared a martyr exempts Kositi from the requirement that a miracle must be attributed to his intercession before he is beatified, thereby fast-tracking the process to get to the first step of sainthood. The Vatican must, however, confirm a miracle attributed to his intercession for him to be canonized, a process that can take years or more.
Winfield, Kambumba and Asadu write for the Associated Press. Winfield reported from Rome, Kambumba from Goma and Asadu from Dakar, Senegal. AP writers Trisha Thomas and Isaia Montelione in Rome contributed to this report.

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More than a hundred people protest war outside Park Station — 1:40 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied Juliana George, Globe correspondent Over a hundred protesters gathered outside of Park Station to protest US participation in the ongoing Iran-Israel War. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Many toted signs with anti-war messages and donned keffiyehs. The emergency rally began with chants such as 'Money for jobs and education, not for war and occupation.' An emcee, who identified themself as an Iranian American community member and organizer with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, thanked the crowd for showing up before introducing a lineup of antiwar speakers. 'We're here to say no to war and no to imperialism, we don't war but we're going to be the ones to pay for it with our tax dollars,' they said. Former presidential candidate and activist Jill Stein speaks at an emergency rally against illegal US aggression in Iran-Israel War outside of Park Street Station. — juliana (@juli4n4yur1ko) UN notes 'chilling pattern' of Israeli troops firing on crowds seeking food in Gaza — 1:30 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press The U.N.'s office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs said Sunday that it is witnessing 'a chilling pattern of Israeli forces opening fire on crowds gathering to get food' in Gaza. Advertisement Israel began allowing food into Gaza this past month after cutting it off completely for 10 weeks. Most of the supplies go to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an Israeli-backed private contractor, which operates four food distribution points inside Israeli military zones. A trickle of aid goes to the U.N. and humanitarian groups. Israeli troops open fire in the direction of crowds crossing military zones to get to the aid, they say. So far, 450 people have been killed while trying to access aid, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. 'Those who are shot are often out of reach of ambulances,' said Jonathan Whittall, OCHA's Head of Office in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, adding that some are still missing and presumed dead in militarized zones near U.S.-Israeli distribution points. Global reactions to US strikes on Iran — 1:10 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press Several close U.S. allies urged a return to the negotiating table in the wake of Here is a look at some of the reactions from governments and officials around the world: United Nations: U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said he was 'gravely alarmed' by the use of force by the United States. Russia: Dmitry Medvedev, who serves as deputy head of President Vladimir Putin's Security Council, said several countries were prepared to supply Tehran with nuclear weapons. He didn't specify which countries, but said the U.S. attack caused minimal damage and would not stop Tehran from pursuing nuclear weapons. European Union: The European Union's top diplomat said Iran must not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, but she urged those involved in the conflict to show restraint. Latin America: Left-wing Latin American governments expressed fierce opposition to the U.S. strikes. The Vatican: Pope Leo XIV made a strong appeal for peace during his Sunday Angelus prayer in St. Peter's square, calling for international diplomacy to 'silence the weapons.' Hezbollah condemns the US strikes on Iran — 1:08 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press The Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah condemned the US strikes on Iran in a statement Sunday but did not threaten to join in Tehran's retaliation. 'The blatant deceit and deception practiced by US President Donald Trump, driven by illusions of control and arrogance ... confirms that the United States of America, along with the tyrants of arrogance, is a threat to the security and stability of the Islamic Republic,' the statement said. '... This proves to the entire world that America is the official sponsor of terrorism and does not recognize international conventions, humanitarian laws, pledges, or obligations.' Advertisement The US considers Hezbollah to be a terrorist group. It called for 'Arab and Islamic countries and the free peoples of the world' to stand with Iran and for the 'United Nations and international and legal bodies, especially the International Atomic Energy Agency, to shoulder their responsibilities regarding this dangerous aggression.' UK, France and Germany urge Iran not to retaliate for US strikes — 12:55 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Iran's leaders to enter negotiations and 'not to take any further action that could destabilize the region.' In a joint statement after holding talks Sunday, they said: 'We will continue our joint diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and ensure the conflict does not intensify and spread further.' The three leaders stressed that 'Iran can never have a nuclear weapon and can no longer pose a threat to regional security,' and affirmed support for Israel's security, but stopped short of endorsing the American strikes. Just a day before the U.S. struck, top diplomats from the three countries and the European Union met Iran's foreign minister in an attempt to find a diplomatic way to end the conflict with Israel and ease tensions over Tehran's nuclear program. The group portrait session at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, near Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on Monday, June 16, 2025. KENNY HOLSTON/NYT Sen. Tim Kaine chides Trump administration for not notifying Congress before attacks — 12:36 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press Kaine, a Virginia Democrat, said the act violated the U.S. Constitution. 'The United States should not be in an offensive war against Iran without a vote of Congress,' Kaine said. 'The Constitution is completely clear on it. And I am so disappointed that the president has acted so prematurely.' Advertisement Kaine said he would force a floor vote in the Senate this week on a resolution that would require a vote ahead of military action against Iran. 'This is the U.S. jumping into a war of choice at Donald Trump's urging, without any compelling national security interests for the United States to act in this way, particularly without a debate and vote in Congress,' he added. Sen. Kaine introduced a resolution Monday seeking to prevent the U.S. from getting involved in a military conflict with Iran without congressional approval. J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press Iran strike risks 'costly, endless war,' says local Congressional representative — 12:17 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied Dan Glaun, Globe Staff Representative Lori Trahan, a Lowell Democrat, said Sunday morning that President Trump's decision to bomb Iranian nuclear facilities threatened to undermine years of anti-nuclear diplomacy and drag the US into 'another costly, endless war in the Middle East.' 'Acting without the consent of Congress, without a clear strategy, and without the backing of our allies puts American lives at risk and risks further destabilizing an already volatile region,' Trahan said Trahan also expressed gratitude for the safe return of the Air Force crews who carried out the strike, and said she shared the goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Mass GOP leader praises Trump for strike — 12:15 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied Dan Glaun, Globe Staff Massachusetts Republican Party Chair Amy Carnevale praised President Trump for 'making the tough decision to use military force to ensure that Iran will never be capable of carrying out widespread nuclear destruction.' 'It is worth noting that the nuclear capabilities of Iran were allowed to flourish in no small part due to poor deals made under our own former Sen. John Kerry,' Carnevale said on the social media platform X. 'May God bless the United States and Israel in the days ahead, and may peace finally prevail.' Advertisement 'A bad thing is still bad,' local Iranian resident reacts to attacks on nuclear sites — 12:07 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied Juliana George, Correspondent The morning after President Trump announced strikes against three Iranian nuclear sites, Poya Sohrabi felt both frightened and relieved. 'The moment I heard that there were strikes on three nuclear facilities, I thought there were also three huge explosions,' said the 35-year-old manager of Cafe Vanak, a Persian restaurant and grocery store in Belmont. 'I am thanking God that so far there has been nothing.' Sohrabi hasn't been home to Iran in 17 years, but he has a sister in Tehran, whom he says he hasn't heard from in three days amid a national internet blackout. He expressed concern that the US aggression might worsen an already turbulent political climate in Iran. 'I understand if the intention is preventing a bigger war, but a bad thing is still bad,' he said. 'Iran is already a broken society on the edge of revolution, and with this regime, I don't see peace in the foreseeable future.' House Minority Whip calls Iran bombing 'unauthorized and unconstitutional' — 12:01 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied Dan Glaun, Globe Staff House Minority Whip Katherine Clark, a Democrat from Revere, said Sunday that President Trump violated the Constitution by ordering air strikes against Iran with Congressional approval. 'The power to declare war resides solely with Congress. Donald Trump's unilateral decision to attack Iran is unauthorized and unconstitutional,' Clark wrote Advertisement House Minority Whip Katherine Clark, D-Mass., speaks during a news conference on the Equality Act at the Capitol, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Washington. Rod Lamkey/Associated Press US orders non-essential diplomats to leave Lebanon after US strikes in Iran — 11:50 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press The State Department has ordered non-essential personnel and the families of staff at the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon to leave as concerns mount about Iranian retaliation for American strikes in Iran. In a notice issued on Sunday, the department said it had taken the step 'due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation in the region.' The notice made no mention of any potential evacuation flights or other assistance for private Americans wanting to leave Lebanon but said they should try to use existing commercial services to depart. The US has already organized several evacuations of American citizens from Israel and is advising American citizens in Iran on how to leave the country. Residents fleeing Tehran say many heeded Israeli warnings to leave — 11:42 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press At Turkey's border with Iran, Ferishteh Husseini said many residents had left Tehran following a warning from Israel to evacuate the city. 'Tehran is empty, there is no one,' she said as she crossed into Turkey. The Israeli airstrikes were mainly targeting military facilities, not civilian ones, but many people were still suffering, she said. Husseini said people were living in groups of 10-20 in one house and supplies were running short. Another Tehran resident, Emir Rustemi, said he arrived at the border by bus and witnessed several roadblocks on the way. Behnam Puran, from Tabriz, defended his country's nuclear program. 'We were minding our own business,' he said. 'We were doing these procedures to gain electricity, not to produce bombs.' Rubio discounts criticism of US strikes from other countries — 11:24 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press 'And a bunch of these countries putting out statements condemning us, privately, they all agree with us that this needed to be done. They got to do what they got to do for their own public relations purposes. But the only people in the world that are unhappy about what happened in Iran last night is the regime in Iran,' Rubio said on Fox News Channel's 'Sunday Morning Futures.' He urged Iran to enter direct talks with the U.S. and said Trump's administration has no objection to a civilian nuclear program. 'They don't even talk to us directly. We always have to have a middleman. They want to pass messages and notes like we're in third grade. We're not doing that anymore. Direct negotiations,' Rubio said. 'Let's talk about how we peacefully resolve this problem.' He thanked Washington's European allies for pressing Iran to engage in face-to-face talks. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio attends a greeting ceremony for Norwegian Foreign Minister Barth Eide at the State Department June 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Win McNamee/Getty US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the next steps are up to the Iranian government — 11:14 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press 'If the regime wants peace, we're ready for peace. If they want to do something else, they're incredibly vulnerable. They can't even protect their own airspace,' Rubio said on CBS' 'Face the Nation' Sunday. Rubio also warned against Iranian attacks on countries in the region that host American military forces. 'That's exactly why they are there. All those bases are there because those countries are afraid Iran will attack them,' Rubio said. 'Those bases are there because those countries are petrified.' 3 Revolutionary Guards killed in an Israeli strike, Iranian media say — 11:12 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press An Israeli airstrike killed three members of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, semiofficial news agencies in the Islamic Republic reported Sunday. The Mehr and Tasnim news agencies reported the attack took place in Zanjan province. The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting at 3 pm EDT Sunday on the US attacks at Iran's request — 11:10 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press Israel's military said it struck sites around multiple cities in Iran on Sunday — 10:28 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press One major target claimed by the Israelis was the Imam Hussein Strategic Missile Command Center in Yazd. Social media footage showed orange smoke rising after one Israeli strike on the area. It could be the result of ammonium perchlorate, a missile fuel component, burning. The Israeli military said other strikes targeted missile launchers in Ahvaz, Bushehr and Isfahan. Iran has not offered any details on the damage it has sustained in the Israeli bombardment. Vance presses Iran to 'go down the path of peace' — 9:56 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press Vice President JD Vance says that the U.S. 'didn't blow up' diplomacy with its attack on Iranian nuclear sites. He told NBC's 'Meet the Press' on Sunday that talks over Iran's rapidly advancing nuclear program were never given a real chance by Tehran. 'And our hope … is that this maybe can reset here. The Iranians can go down the path of peace or they can go down the path of this ridiculous brinksmanship of funding terrorism, of trying to build a nuclear weapon and that's just not something the United States can accept,' Vance said. He reiterated that the U.S. wasn't at war with Iran, has no interest in a protracted conflict or boots on the ground. Vance says he felt 'very confident that we've substantially delayed their development of a nuclear weapon,' and it would be 'many, many years' before Iran could develop a nuclear weapon. What happened to uranium and centrifuges at Fordo nuclear site? — 9:32 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press The U.S. strike on Fordo raised the specter of a new problem facing the world over Iran's nuclear program — what has happened to its stockpile of uranium and centrifuges? Ahead of the U.S. strike, satellite images suggest Iran packed the entrance tunnels to Fordo with dirt and had trucks parked at the facility. Meanwhile, several Iranian officials, including Atomic Energy Organization of Iran spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi and Mohsen Rezaei, a former Revolutionary Guard commander, claimed Iran had moved out its nuclear material from the targeted sites. Before the Israeli campaign, Iran said it had declared a third, unknown site in the country as a new enrichment facility. 'Questions remain as to where Iran may be storing its already enriched stocks … as these will have almost certainly been moved to hardened and undisclosed locations, out of the way of potential Israeli or U.S. strikes,' said Darya Dolzikova, a senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute focused on nonproliferation issues. Hegseth says US military used decoys and deception in Iran attack — 9:05 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied the Associated Press U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said Sunday that despite a surprise attack overnight on Iranian nuclear sites, America 'does not seek war.' Hegseth said it was important to note that U.S. strikes did not target Iranian troops or the Iranian people, a veiled effort to indicate to Iran that they don't want retaliation on American targets in the region. Hegseth said that a choice to move a number of B-2 bombers from their base in Missouri earlier Saturday was meant to be a decoy to throw off Iranians. He added that the U.S. used other methods of deception as well, deploying fighters to protect the B-2 bombers that dropped 14 bunker-buster bombs on Iran's most powerful nuclear site. He said that all of these tactics helped the U.S. drop the bombs without tipping off Iran's fighter jets or its air missile systems. US and Iranian officials say both countries are exchanging messages — 8:51 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Hours after Iran's top diplomat disclosed that the line of communication between Washington and Tehran remains open, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed his remarks in a press conference. 'I can only confirm that there are both public and private messages being directly delivered to the Iranians in multiple channels, giving them every opportunity to come to the table,' Hegseth said. See video of Sunday morning's Pentagon briefing — 8:41 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Globe Staff Defense secretary Pete Hegseth and General J. Daniel Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, spoke at the Pentagon on Sunday morning. Pentagon says US bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities was 'not about regime change' — 8:29 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Trump administration said that its attack on three Iranian nuclear facilities was not about toppling the country's government. 'This mission was not and has not been about regime change,' Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a Sunday news briefing. Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stressed that the goal of 'Operation Midnight Hammer' had destroyed the nuclear sites in Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. 'Final battle damage will take some time, but initial battle damage assessments indicate that all three sites sustained extremely severe damage and destruction,' Caine said. Iranian president condemns US strikes — 8:24 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday condemned the U.S. attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites. 'This aggression showed that the United States is the primary instigator of the Zionist regime's hostile actions against the Islamic Republic of Iran,' Pezeshkian said Sunday. 'Although they initially tried to deny their role, after our armed forces' decisive and deterrent response and the Zionist regime's clear incapacity, they were inevitably forced to enter the field themselves.' Pezeshkian urged the public to come together in the face of the attacks from Israel and the U.S. 'Operation Midnight Hammer': A highly classified mission — 8:11 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Globe Staff The US attack involved decoy aircraft that flew west from the United States, while the real attack force flew east, Pentagon officials said in a briefing on Sunday morning. US submarines launched cruise missiles as part of the attack, officials said. Several US commands were part of the attack, including Space Command. 'We are currently unaware of any shots fired at the US strike package on the way in,' said General J. Daniel Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. All three Iranian sites that were targeted sustained extensive damage, Caine said. Explosions heard in Bushehr, home to Iran's only nuclear plant — 7:52 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Explosions boomed Sunday afternoon in the Iranian port city of Bushehr, three semiofficial Iranian media outlets reported. It was not immediately clear what caused the blasts. Bushehr is home to Iran's only nuclear power plant, which is run with Russian assistance. Iranian authorities have not reported any problem at the plant. Meanwhile, explosions also struck the city of Yazd in central Iran, with some suggesting it came from Israeli airstrikes targeting a power plant and a military garrison. Russia strongly condemns US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites — 7:06 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Russia's Foreign Ministry on Sunday 'strongly condemned' U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, calling them 'a gross violation of international law, the U.N. Charter, and U.N. Security Council resolutions.' In its statement on Telegram, the ministry warned of potential 'radiological' consequences and said the strikes marked 'a dangerous escalation … fraught with further undermining of regional and global security.' Israel assessing damage from US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites — 6:52 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said Israel was still assessing damage from U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear sites. At a press briefing, Defrin was asked whether enriched material had been removed from the Fordo site before the U.S. strike, and he replied that it was too early to know. Defrin said the strikes were carried out in coordination with the Israeli military. France 'has learned with concern' about US strikes in Iran — 6:22 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The French foreign minister says his country did not take part in the U.S. strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities. Jean-Noel Barrot said in a message on social media on Sunday that France 'has learned with concern' of the U.S. military action against three nuclear sites. 'It was neither involved in these strikes nor in their planning,' Barrot said, adding that France 'urges the parties to show restraint in order to avoid any escalation that could lead to an extension of the conflict.' Barrot also reiterated France's opposition to Iran gaining access to nuclear weapons. 'France is convinced that a lasting solution to this issue requires a negotiated solution within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty,' he said. 'It remains ready to contribute to this in conjunction with its partners.' Iran's top diplomat says he'll meet with Putin in Moscow — 5:59 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, responding to a question from a Russian outlet, said he'll travel to Moscow later on Sunday to meet with President Vladimir Putin, after the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear sites. 'We enjoy a strategic partnership and we always consult with each other and coordinate our positions,' he said, referring to Russia. Iran's top diplomat says 'there is no red line' that the US has not crossed — 5:49 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Abbas Araghchi told a news conference in Istanbul that there is 'no red line' that the U.S. has not crossed in its recent actions against the Islamic Republic. 'And the last one and the most dangerous one was what happened only last night when they crossed a very big red line by attacking nuclear facilities only,' he said. Iran's foreign minister says diplomacy not an option after US attack — 5:42 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Abbas Araghchi, speaking to journalists in Istanbul on Sunday, said while the 'door to diplomacy' should always be open, 'this is not the case right now.' Iran's foreign minister says the US is 'fully responsible' for the consequences of strikes on nuclear sites — 5:41 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press 'The warmongering, a lawless administration in Washington is solely and fully responsible for the dangerous consequences and far reaching implications of its act of aggression,' Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a news briefing at a conference in Turkey. These were the first public statements from a high-ranking Iranian official since the U.S. carried out its strikes overnight. Head of the Red Cross says 'the world cannot absorb limitless war' — 5:21 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross has warned that the escalation in the Middle East risks 'engulfing the region — and the world — in a war with irreversible consequences.' 'The world cannot absorb limitless war. Upholding international humanitarian law is not a choice — it is an obligation,' Mirjana Spoljaric said in a statement. Satellite images show damage to the entryways to Iran's underground nuclear site at Fordo — 5:13 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Satellite images taken Sunday analyzed by The Associated Press show damage to the entryways to Iran's underground nuclear site at Fordo after U.S. airstrikes targeted the facility. The images by Planet Labs PBC also appeared to show damage to the mountain itself that Fordo is under. This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows vehicles at the Fordo enrichment facility in Iran on June 20. Uncredited/Associated Press Sealing those entry tunnels means Iran would have to dig out the facility to reach anything once-brown mountain had parts turned gray and its contours appeared slightly different than in previous images, suggesting a blast threw up debris around the site. That suggests the use of specialized American bunker buster bombs on the facility. Light gray smoke also hung in the air. Iran has yet to offer a damage assessment of the site. Britain was notified in advance of US strikes on Iran — 4:58 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Cabinet minister Jonathan Reynolds told Sky News that Britain was notified as a key ally, though he didn't know the actual timing. He said the U.S. did not ask for support and Britain was not involved. 'Whilst the British government, the U.K., has not been involved in these attacks, we have been making extensive preparations for all eventualities,' Reynolds said. He said the government was working on how to look after British nationals as well as its military bases, personnel and infrastructure in the region. Iran's top diplomat throws cold water on calls to return to diplomacy with US — 4:57 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that the U.S. strikes overnight have blown up any possibility of diplomacy with the Americans or Europeans. 'Last week, we were in negotiations with the US when Israel decided to blow up that diplomacy. This week, we held talks with the E3/EU when the US decided to blow up that diplomacy,' Araghchi wrote on X. 'What conclusion would you draw?' He added that British and European Union comments for Iran to 'return' to the negotiating table is unfeasible now. Bahrain warns drivers to stay off main roads after US strikes in Iran — 3:58 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The island kingdom of Bahrain, in a warning that shows the growing concern in the Gulf Arab states, told drivers to stay off main roads if possible. Bahrain's Interior Ministry wrote on X: 'In light of recent developments in the regional security situation, we urge citizens and residents to use main roads only when necessary, to maintain public safety and to allow the relevant authorities to use the roads efficiently.' Bahrain is home to the U.S. Navy's Mideast-based 5th Fleet and long been a threatened target of Iran. Iran's Guard says it launched 40 missiles in Sunday's barrage against Israel — 3:40 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard says it launched 40 missiles, including its Khorramshahr-4 missile, during the attack on Israel on Sunday morning. Iran has said the Khorramshahr-4 can carry multiple warheads. Israel says it took out 2 Iranian F-5 fighter jets — 3:39 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israel's military said it bombed two F-5 fighter jets of the Iranian military at the country's Dezful airport. The F-5s are part of Iran's aging fleet of fighter jets from the era of the shah. Israel released black-and-white footage showing one of the aircrafts being destroyed. Israel previously hit F-14 Tomcats flown by the Iranian military in the war. However, it isn't clear if these aircraft were airworthy as many have been grounded over the years due to a lack of parts. Iran has not acknowledged losses of aircraft or other materiel in the war so far. Israel says more than 80 injured in latest Iranian strikes — 3:34 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Israeli Health Ministry says Iranian attacks overnight and into Sunday have wounded more than 80 people. The vast majority, more than 70, were lightly wounded, it said. UN nuclear watchdog's chief says an emergency meeting due on Monday — 3:26 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The head of U.N.'s nuclear watchdog posted on X that given the U.S. intervention in the Israel-Iran war, he will be convening an emergency meeting of the Board of Governors on Monday. Rafael Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has been the target of much Iranian criticism in recent days for what they describe as conflicting statements that incited Israel's initial attack. Iran says it fired one of its biggest ballistic missiles targeting Israel after US strikes — 2:59 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iranian state TV showed what appeared to be previous test-firing footage of the Khorramshahr-4 missile, with an on-screen caption saying it was used on Sunday in a barrage on Israel. The Khorramshahr-4 has the heaviest payload of Iran's ballistic missile fleet, which analysts say may be designed to keep the weapon under a 2,000-kilometer range limit imposed by the country's supreme leader. The missile has been described as having a 2,000-kilometer (1,240-mile) range with a 1,500-kilogram (3,300-pound) warhead. Iran's Foreign Ministry says 'the US has itself launched a dangerous war against Iran' by attacking nuclear sites — 2:31 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's Foreign Ministry says 'the U.S. has itself launched a dangerous war against Iran' after America attacked three nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic. 'The world must not forget that it was the United States — during an ongoing diplomatic process — that betrayed diplomacy by supporting the aggressive actions of the genocidal and lawless Israeli regime,' the ministry said in a lengthy statement. It added that Iran 'reserves its right to resist with full force against U.S. military aggression and the crimes committed by this rogue regime, and to defend Iran's security and national interests.' Israeli first responders report destruction from latest Iranian missiles — 2:06 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli first responders say several residential buildings were damaged in an Iranian missile barrage launched after the U.S. strikes. Moti Nissan, a paramedic with Magen David Adom, described a 'large-scale scene of destruction,' with several two-story buildings 'severely damaged.' He did not provide a location. Israeli has sought to conceal the precise location of missile impacts to avoid giving targeting information to the Iranians. Iranian missiles wound 11 in Israel as new Israeli strikes on Iran are reported — 1:59 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Magen David Adom rescue service says one of those wounded was a 30-year-old man in moderate condition and the other 10 were lightly wounded. Shortly after the Iranian missile barrage, Israel announced its warplanes were conducting strikes on 'military targets' in western Iran, without immediately elaborating. Iran executes a man accused of spying for Israel — 1:51 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran says a man accused of spying for Israel has been executed. The case was not previously reported by Tehran. The judiciary's Mizan news agency identified the man as Majid Mosayebi and said he was hanged on Sunday after charges of spying in exchange for cryptocurrency payments. The development raises fears of Tehran stepping up executions in the country in retaliation for the U.S. attacks. Iran is one of the world's top executioners. Iran's ally Hamas and Yemeni rebels condemn US strikes — 1:42 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Houthi rebels in Yemen are vowing to support Iran in its fight against 'the Zionist and American aggression.' Their statement called for the Muslim nations to join the holy war and act as 'one front against the Zionist-American arrogance.' The militant Palestinian group Hamas says the U.S. aid strikers on Iran are a 'direct threat to international peace and security'and 'a blind pursuit of the rogue Zionist occupation's agenda.' Iranian missiles hit areas in northern and central Israel after US strikes on Iran — 1:35 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Israeli rescue service United Hatzalah said it was dispatching first responders. There was no immediate word on casualties or damage. Iran has fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel since Israel launched a surprise attack on its military and nuclear facilities last week. Israel's sophisticated air defenses are able to shoot down most but not all of the missiles and drones. Democratic lawmaker says last intel briefing showed 'Iran posed no immediate threat' — 1:33 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy posted on X that he and other senators received a classified briefing last week from intelligence officials who indicated that Iran did not pose an immediate threat through its nuclear program. 'Iran was not close to building a deliverable nuclear weapon,' Murphy said. 'The negotiations Israel scuttled with their strikes held the potential for success.' UN watchdog says no increase in radiation levels off the sites that US hit — 1:28 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The International Atomic Energy Agency says there has been 'no increase in off-site radiation levels' after U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The U.N. nuclear watchdog sent the message via the social platform X. 'The IAEA can confirm that no increase in off-site radiation levels has been reported as of this time,' it said. The 'IAEA will provide further assessments on situation in Iran as more information becomes available.' Iran asks for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over US strikes — 12:43 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's ambassador to the United Nations has asked for an emergency Security Council meeting for what he described as the U.S.'s 'heinous attacks and illegal use of force' against Iran. In a letter, obtained by AP, Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani, said that the U.N.'s most powerful body must 'take all necessary measures' to hold the U.S. accountable. 'The Islamic Republic of Iran condemns and denounces in the strongest possible terms these unprovoked and premeditated acts of aggression, which have followed the large-scale military attack conducted by the Israeli regime on 13 June against Iran's peaceful nuclear sites and facilities,' the letter continued. Israel's military says Iranian missiles incoming; people asked to go to shelters — 12:37 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israel's military says it has identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of Israel. The public has been instructed to go to shelters and protected areas and remain there until further notice. Iran's foreign minister slams US strikes — 12:36 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says on X that Tehran 'reserves all options' to retaliate. He's the first ranking official to comment on the strikes on Isfahan, Fordo and Natanz by the U.S. 'The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences,' Araghchi wrote. Iran's Fars news publishes on the ground account of Fordo strikes — 12:18 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press A semiofficial news agency in Iran has published an account attack on Fordo quoting one of its reporters. Fars, which is believed to be close to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, said its reporter heard anti-aircraft fire around 2:05 a.m. local time. The reporter heard explosions two minutes later, it said. 'When I reached the vicinity of the Mehr-o-Mah recreational complex, the air defense system was operating intensely, and its activity was clearly visible in the sky,' the reporter said. 'At around 2:35 a.m., I arrived near the Mahtab recreational complex. At that moment, amid the air defense activity, flames suddenly erupted from the direction of Fordo.' Simultaneously with the flames, a faint trail of smoke and a significant amount of dust rose in the area, Fars quoted the reporter as saying. It offered no photos or video showing the attack. Vermont Senator Welch: Iran strike 'puts us in danger' — 12:17 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Peter Welch, US Senator of Vermont, slammed President Trump's decision to strike Iranian nuclear facilities, saying the action 'doesn't make America safer, it puts us in danger.'Welch, a Democrat, also had harsh words for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with whom Trump said he worked 'as a team' on the operation.'Prime Minister Netanyahu is dragging us into another forever war in the Middle East,' Welch said Saturday night in a post on X.'Congress has the power to declare war, not the President,' he concluded. Richard Neal blasts Trump for offering American people 'no strategy' — 12:01 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Representative Richard Neal said he is praying for the safety of American troops and civilians who have been 'put in harm's way' in the Middle East after the US military strikes on Iran. Neal, a 17-term Democrat from Western Massachusetts, also blasted Trump for what he said was a failure to provide a strategy for the bombings.' Tonight, President Trump offered the American people no strategy and no justification for his attack on Iran — only the prospect of another war that the American people do not want," Neal said in a post on X. 'That's why Congress, as the voice of the people, is entrusted with the constitutional authority to decide matters of war.' He also urged diplomatic efforts in the conflict with Iran. 'Congress must return to Washington to assert its authority and prevent any further unchecked escalation,' Neal wrote. 'The only path to peace in the region is one where we exhaust every avenue of diplomacy.' Israeli officials welcome US intervention — 12:00 a.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli officials lauded the strikes in sweeping and dramatic language. Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, thanked Trump and said the strikes marked a 'decisive moment between the axis of terror and evil and the axis of hope.' Defense Minister Israel Katz congratulated Trump on what he described as a 'historic decision.' US steps up efforts to evacuate citizens from Israel — 11:48 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The U.S. is stepping up evacuation flights for American citizens from Israel to Europe and continuing to draw down its staff at diplomatic missions in Iraq as fears of Iranian retaliation again U.S. interests in the Middle East grow. Even before those airstrikes were announced by President Donald Trump on Saturday evening in Washington, the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem announced the start of evacuation flights for American civilians from Israel. Sixty-seven American citizens left Israel on two government flights bound for Athens, Greece on Saturday and four more evacuation flights to Athens were planned for Sunday, according to an internal State Department document seen by The Associated Press. In addition to the flights, a cruise ship carrying more than 1,000 American citizens, including several hundred Jewish youngsters who had been visiting Israel on an organized tour, arrived in Cyprus, according to the document. Israeli strikes killed at least 865, rights group says — 11:47 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli strikes on Iran killed at least 865 people and wounded 3,396 others, a human rights group said Sunday. The Washington-based group Human Rights Activists offered the figures, which covers the entirety of Iran. It said of those dead, it identified 363 civilians and 215 security force personnel being killed. Human Rights Activists, which also provided detailed casualty figures during the 2022 protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, crosschecks local reports in the Islamic Republic against a network of sources it has developed in the country. Iran has not been offering regular death tolls during the conflict and has minimized casualties in the past. On Saturday, Iran's Health Ministry said some 400 Iranians had been killed and another 3,056 wounded in the Israeli strikes. — This post has been corrected to reflect that the count is for deaths caused by Israeli, not U.S., strikes. Israel closes airspace — 11:20 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israel's Airport Authority announced it was closing the country's airspace to both inbound and outbound flights in the wake of the U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. The agency said it was shutting down air traffic 'due to recent developments' and did not say for how long. Iran says strikes did not cause nuclear contamination — 11:20 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran said early Sunday there were 'no signs of contamination' at its nuclear sites at Isfahan, Fordo and Natanz after U.S. airstrikes targeted the facilities. Iranian state media quoted the country's National Nuclear Safety System Center, which published a statement saying its radiation detectors had recorded no radioactive release after the strikes. 'There is no danger to the residents living around the aforementioned sites,' the statement added. Earlier Israeli airstrikes on nuclear sites similarly have caused no recorded release of radioactive material into the environment around the facilities, the International Atomic Energy Agency has said. Strikes reportedly used 'bunker buster' bombs and cruise missiles — 11:10 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The U.S. military used 'bunker-buster' bombs in its attack on Iran's Fordo nuclear fuel enrichment plant, which is built deep into a mountain, a U.S. official said. That official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations. The 30,000-pound bunker-busting American bomb known as the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator uses its weight and sheer kinetic force to penetrate underground and then explode. Saturday's strikes were the first time it has been used in combat. U.S. submarines also participated in the attacks in Iran, launching about 30 Tomahawk land attack missiles, according to another U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations. It was not clear what those missiles were aimed at. Two Iranian nuclear sites besides Fordo were attacked, Isfahan and Natanz. A photo provided by the US Air Force shows a GBU-57 or Massive Ordnance Penetrator bomb, known as a "bunker buster" at Whiteman Air Base in Missouri in May 2023. U.S. AIR FORCE/NYT White House posts images from Situation Room — 11:02 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The White House published photos on X showing President Donald Trump monitoring the Iran mission from the Situation Room. Trump was joined by his top advisers, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as well as Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In one photo, papers in front of CIA director John Ratcliffe appear to be blurred. In this image provided by the White House, President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, right, sat in the Situation Room on Saturday. Uncredited/Associated Press In this image provided by the White House, President Trump, right, and Vice President Vance sat in the Situation Room on Saturday. Uncredited/Associated Press Trump's strikes in Iran are 'another burden' for American people, Sanders says — 10:55 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Camilo Fonseca, Globe Staff Chants of 'No More War' broke out at a Bernie Sanders rally in Tulsa, Okla., after the Vermont Senator read Trump's social media post announcing the strikes. 'I agree,' Sanders said to the people chanting. 'And I want to tell you something. Not only is this news that I've just heard this second alarming … but it is so grossly unconstitutional. All of you know that the only entity that can take this country to war is the US Congress. The president does not have the right.' Quiet outside the White House as Trump describes Iran strikes — 10:48 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press After Trump spoke to the country about the bombing in Iran, the White House had an eerie calm. There was darkness outside the West Wing, other than bright TV crew lights and yellow lights from the nearby Eisenhower Executive Office Building overlooking the White House. A siren rang in the background in city traffic that continued without pausing for the historic moment. Trump's speech came on in the overhead speakers in the White House press area, only for his voice to give way to a sudden silence after he thanked God. The West Wing is lit up as President Trump spoke from the East Room of the White House in Washington on Saturday. Alex Brandon/Associated Press Journalists were ready at their live positions as President Trump spoke from the East Room of the White House in Washington on Saturday. Alex Brandon/Associated Press President Trump spoke from the East Room of the White House as seen on a television monitor in the James Brady Press Briefing Room. Alex Brandon/Associated Press Trump calls Netanyahu — 10:41 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a video that Trump called him after the strikes: 'It was a very warm conversation, very emotional.' Speaking in Hebrew, he called Trump a friend of Israel like no one before him. 'In my name, and in the name of all citizens of Israel, and in the name of the entire Jewish world, I thank him from the bottom of my heart,' he said. Anti-war rally planned for Downtown Boston on Sunday afternoon — 10:38 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Camilo Fonseca, Globe Staff Brian Garvey, the head of Massachusetts Peace Action, said the organization was planning 'emergency event' outside Park Street Station at 1 p.m. Sunday, in protest of the strikes. 'This direct attack by the United States on Iran a dramatic escalation by President Trump,' Garvey said in a phone call Saturday night. 'It's incredibly dangerous, it's unneccessary, and frankly, it's illegal.' Garvey said the founding fathers were explicit in giving Congress the power to declare war, adding that this is 'not how the government is supposed to work.' 'It is perhaps especially terrible because this is a president who ran saying he was going to seek peace,' he said. 'Back in 2016, he said the Iraq War was a big fat mistake. I fear that what he is leading us into could be even worse than that debacle and quagmire.' Garvey said he was 'fearful' for the U.S. servicemembers stationed in the Middle East, and 'outraged' that the strikes threatened their safety. Clark condemns Trump's 'unilateral decision to attack Iran' — 10:31 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Representative Katherine Clark added her voice to the chorus of Democrats denouncing the Iranian strikes as 'unauthorized and unconstitutional,' writing on social media that the 'power to declare war resides solely with Congress.' In a post on X Saturday night, Clark wrote: 'Donald Trump's unilateral decision to attack Iran is unauthorized and unconstitutional. 'In doing so, the President has exposed our military and diplomatic personnel in the region to the risk of further escalation. 'The American people,' Clark continued, 'our men and women in uniform, and their families deserve answers.' Warren calls strikes on Iran 'unconstitutional', calls for congressional oversight — 10:23 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Camilo Fonseca, Globe Staff Senator Elizabeth Warren slammed the Trump administration's strikes on Iran as 'a horrific war of choice' on social media. In a post on X, the Massachusetts Democrat wrote that 'Donald Trump's bombing of Iran is unconstitutional.' 'Only Congress can declare war — and the Senate must vote immediately to prevent another endless war,' Warren said. Trump warns Iran 'there are many targets left' — 10:21 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The U.S. president warned during his address that he will not hesitate to strike other targets in Iran if peace does not come quickly in the Middle East. 'There will either be peace or there will be tragedy for Iran, far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days,' he said. Trump said that while the nuclear facilities struck by the U.S. on Saturday were the most 'lethal,' 'there are many targets left.' 'If peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill,' he added. President Trump spoke from the East Room of the White House in Washington on Saturday. Carlos Barria/Associated Press Trump warns Tehran against retaliation against US, saying Iran has choice between 'peace or tragedy' — 10:19 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Pentagon news conference scheduled for Sunday — 10:16 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Trump says that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will hold a news conference at 8 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday about the bombing of Iran's nuclear facilities. Hegseth will be accompanied by Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Trump in his White House remarks specifically congratulated Caine for the aerial strike. United Nations leader condemns US strikes — 10:12 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that he was 'gravely alarmed' by the 'dangerous escalation' of American bombers attacking nuclear sites in Iran. 'There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control — with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world,' he said in a statement. He added that 'at this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos' and called for further diplomacy. Trump says he worked 'as a team' with Israel's prime minister to strike Iran — 10:11 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Trump said he worked 'as a team' with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the collaboration was 'perhaps' like 'no team has worked before.' But Trump also noted that no military in the world except for the that of the U.S. could have pulled off the attack. President Trump spoke from the East Room of the White House in Washington, Saturday, after the US military struck three Iranian nuclear and military sites. Carlos Barria/Associated Press Trump says Iran will face more military strikes unless it makes peace — 10:09 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press President Donald Trump called Iran 'the bully of the Middle East' and warned of additional attacks if it didn't make peace. 'If they do not, future attacks would be far greater and a lot easier,' Trump said at the White House after the bombings of Iran's nuclear facilities were announced earlier. Trump portrayed the strike as a response to a long-festering problem, even if the objective was to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. 'For 40 years Iran has been saying death to America, death to Israel,' Trump said. 'They have been killing our people, blowing off their arms, blowing off their legs with roadside bombs.' Trump says Iran's key nuclear sites 'completely and fully obliterated' by strikes — 10:07 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's nuclear agency confirms attacks on Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz atomic sites, says its work will not be stopped — 10:00 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Netanyahu welcomes US strikes — 9:58 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump's decision to attack in a video message posted to X, directed to the American president. 'Your bold decision to target Iran's nuclear facilities, with the awesome and righteous might of the United States, will change history,' he said. Netanyahu said the U.S. 'has done what no other country on earth could do.' President Trump and I often say: 'Peace through strength.' First comes strength, then comes peace. And tonight, — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) Pressley says Congress must 'rein in Trump' — 9:57 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Representative Ayanna Pressley criticized the US bombings in Iran, calling the action 'a violation of the Constitution' that risks 'innocent lives.' In a post on X, Pressley, a Democrat representing the state's 7th congressional district, wrote: 'We do not need another deadly, endless war. Congress must act immediately to rein in Trump.' Auchincloss calls for Iran to 'surrender' its nuclear program — 9:50 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Massachusetts Representative Jake Auchincloss called on Iran to end its nuclear program and to stop 'funding terrorists.' The 37-year-old Marine Corps veteran also pressed for a more open debate on 'war-making.' 'Two things should happen immediately,' Auchincloss wrote on X soon after the US conducted strikes on Iran. 'Iran surrenders its nuclear program & ceases funding terrorists. Congress revokes the 2001 & 2002 war authorities so that the American public can get an open & thorough debate on war-making.' New York police raising security — 9:44 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press After the U.S. strikes in Iran, police in New York City said they were increasing security at religious, cultural, and diplomatic sites, out of 'an abundance of caution.' The NYPD said it's tracking the situation, coordinating with federal law enforcement agencies and will continue to monitor for any potential impact to the nation's largest city. The NYPD has a robust intelligence and counterterrorism operation, with detectives posted around the globe. It's common for the department to beef up security at places like synagogues and mosques, as well as diplomatic installations, when world events warrant. Congress reacts — 9:35 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Republicans leaders in Congress praised Trump's decision to strike Iran. U. S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican who was briefed by the White House ahead of the strike, said in a statement, 'President Trump has been consistent and clear that a nuclear-armed Iran will not be tolerated ... That posture has now been enforced with strength, precision, and clarity.' U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the Iranian regime's 'misguided pursuit of nuclear weapons must be stopped.' U.S. Linsdey Graham, a longtime Iran hawk and Republican from South Carolina, wrote online: 'This was the right call. The regime deserves it.' Meanwhile, elected Democrats and some far-right Republicans questioned the move, particularly without authorization from the U.S. Congress. 'Horrible judgment,' said Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va. 'I will push for all Senators to vote on whether they are for this third idiotic Middle East war.' Said conservative Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, 'While President Trump's decision may prove just, it's hard to conceive a rationale that's Constitutional.' Nonproliferation group condemns attacks — 9:28 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The Washington-based Arms Control Association, which focuses on nuclear nonproliferation, said the attack was an 'irresponsible departure from Trump's pursuit of diplomacy and increases the risk of a nuclear-armed Iran.' 'The U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear targets, including the deeply fortified, underground Fordo uranium enrichment complex, may temporarily set back Iran's nuclear program, but in the long term, military action is likely to push Iran to determine nuclear weapons are necessary for deterrence and that Washington is not interested in diplomacy,' it warned. McGovern condemns Trump's decision to bomb Iran without congressional approval — 9:20 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By Hayley Kaufman, Globe Staff Massachusetts Representative Jim McGovern denounced Trump's decision to bomb three Iranian nuclear sites without congressional approval. 'This is insane,' McGovern wrote in a post on X Saturday night, soon after the president announced the strikes. 'Trump just bombed Iran without Congressional approval, illegally dragging us into war in the Middle East. Have we not learned our lesson!?!? The Worcester Democrat continued: 'Congress must return to Washington at once to vote on @RepThomasMassie's War Powers Resolution to stop this madness.' Iran's state-run news agency confirms attacks targeting Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites — 9:17 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported early Sunday that attacks also targeted the country's Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites. IRNA quoted Akbar Salehi, Isfahan's deputy governor in charge of security affairs, saying there had been attacks around the sites. He did not elaborate. Another official confirmed an attack targeting Iran's underground Fordo nuclear site. Trump tells Fox News' Hannity that six bunker buster bombs were used — 9:12 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Fox News host Sean Hannity said shortly after 9 pm EST that he had spoken with Trump and that six bunker buster bombs were used on the Fordo facility. Hannity said that 30 Tomahawk missiles fired by U.S. submarines 400 miles away struck the Iranian nuclear sites of Natanz and Festivus. Iran's state-run news agency acknowledges attack on nuclear facility — 9:01 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's state-run IRNA news agency early Sunday acknowledged an attack on the country's Fordo nuclear site. Quoting a statement from Iran's Qom province, IRNA said: 'A few hours ago, when Qom air defenses were activated and hostile targets were identified, part of the Fordo nuclear site was attacked by enemies.' The IRNA report did not elaborate. Irani news agencies report that air defenses opened fire near Fordo — 8:56 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Iran's semiofficial Tasnim news agency, believed to be close to the country's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, quoted a provincial official in Qom that air defense did recently fire in an attack believed to target the area around the Fordo facility, but offered no other information. The semiofficial Fars news agency, also close to the Guard, quoted another official saying air defenses opened fire near Isfahan and explosions had been heard. Fars also quoted the same official in Qom province, saying air defenses fired around Fordo. The Fordo enrichment center, Iran's most heavily fortified nuclear site. Maxar Technologies/NYT US-claimed attack threatens to reignite war with Houthi rebels — 8:52 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press The attack claimed by President Trump threatened to reignite America's war with Yemen's Houthi rebels, the last member of Iran's self-described 'Axis of Resistance' able to launch regular attacks. The Houthis on Saturday warned they would resume attack American ships in the Red Sea corridor if the U.S. joined the Israeli campaign. Trump says B-2 stealth bombers were used in operation — 8:42 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Trump said B-2 stealth bombers were used but did not specify which types of bombs were dropped. The White House and Pentagon did not immediately elaborate on the operation. Earlier in the day, several US Air Force B-2 bombers Flight tracker data showed the B-2 aircraft, which can carry the 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs Trump is considering deploying against Iran's underground nuclear facilities in Fordo, taking off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Trump describes bombings as a 'very successful military operation' — 8:33 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press President Donald Trump The president described the bombings as a 'very successful military operation in Iran.' 'This is an HISTORIC MOMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ISRAEL, AND THE WORLD. IRAN MUST NOW AGREE TO END THIS WAR,' Trump added. Several Republican senators praise Trump — 8:28 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press Several Republican senators are praising President Donald Trump after he announced Saturday evening that the U.S. military bombed three sites in Iran. 'Well done, President Trump,' Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C, posted on X. Texas Sen. John Cornyn called it a 'courageous decision.' Alabama Sen. Katie Britt said she stands by Trump and called the bombings 'strong and surgical.' Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin posted: 'America first, always.' Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania also praised the attacks on Iran. 'As I've long maintained, this was the correct move by @POTUS,' he posted. 'Iran is the world's leading sponsor of terrorism and cannot have nuclear capabilities.' One House Republican criticized Trump's decision. 'This is not Constitutional,' posted Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, a longtime opponent of U.S. involvement in foreign wars. US strikes 3 Iranian nuclear sites, Trump says, joining Israeli air campaign — 8:20 p.m. .cls-1{clip-path:url(#clippath);}.cls-2,.cls-3{fill:none;}.cls-2,.cls-3,.cls-4{stroke-width:0px;}.cls-5{clip-path:url(#clippath-1);}.cls-3{clip-rule:evenodd;} Link copied By the Associated Press President Donald Trump said Saturday that the U.S. military struck three sites in Iran, directly joining Israel's effort to decapitate the country's nuclear program in a risky gambit to weaken a longtime foe amid Tehran's threat of reprisals that could spark a wider regional conflict. The decision to directly involve the U.S. comes after more than a week of strikes by Israel on Iran that have moved to systematically eradicate the country's air defenses and offensive missile capabilities, while damaging its nuclear enrichment facilities. But U.S. and Israeli officials have said that American stealth bombers and a 30,000-lb. bunker buster bomb they alone can carry offered the best chance of destroying heavily-fortified sites connected to the Iranian nuclear program buried deep underground.