Iran has vowed to retaliate against the United States following devastating U.S.-led strikes on its nuclear facilities, as global fears mount over possible escalation, economic fallout, and the potential closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran Threatens Response as Nuclear Damage Confirmed

On Sunday, Iran declared it would defend itself after the most significant Western military action against the Islamic republic since 1979. U.S. forces launched 75 precision-guided munitions, including bunker-buster bombs and Tomahawk missiles, striking three key nuclear sites—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.

Commercial satellite imagery showed severe destruction at the Fordow underground enrichment plant, though the exact extent remains unverified. Trump claimed on Truth Social that the damage reached “far below ground level” and declared a “bullseye” hit.

Despite Iranian assertions that highly enriched uranium had been relocated before the strikes, the International Atomic Energy Agency said it could not yet assess the underground impact.

Strait of Hormuz in Focus Amid Missile Exchanges

Iranian lawmakers have approved a move to close the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for one-fifth of global oil flows. The decision awaits confirmation by the Supreme National Security Council. Analysts warn this would be “economic suicide,” risking war with the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet and sending oil prices soaring.

On Monday, Brent crude jumped to $78.89 per barrel, its highest since January, while U.S. WTI rose to $75.71.

While Tehran has yet to act on this threat, it fired multiple missiles at Tel Aviv following the U.S. attacks, damaging infrastructure and wounding civilians. Israeli defences intercepted additional launches early Monday.

International Alarm and Diplomatic Efforts

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is set to meet President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to coordinate responses. Russia condemned the U.S. strikes as a violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty and, along with China and Pakistan, is pushing for a U.N. resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the bombings marked a dangerous escalation and urged a return to nuclear negotiations.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on China to dissuade Iran from closing the strait, warning it would damage global economies more than the U.S.

Trump Mentions Regime Change

In a provocative statement, Trump floated the idea of regime change: “If the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!”

Although U.S. officials stressed they are not seeking to topple Iran’s leadership, Israeli figures have increasingly hinted at such goals since launching the initial strike on June 13.