The US has launched strikes on Iran, bombing three of the country’s nuclear facilities. 

Donald Trump authorised the strikes on the Fordow, Natanx and Esfahan sites on Saturday evening, calling it a “successful attack”.

“We have completed our very successful attack on the three nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan,” Mr Trump said on Truth Social. 

“All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

Pressure had been mounting on the US to intervene in the escalating conflict in support of Israel, and to force Iran’s leaders to end its nuclear programme.

The strikes signal a significant escalation in the conflict, and the most consequential decision of Mr Trump’s presidency so far.