Iran responds after US launches 'successful' strikes on nuclear sites

Iran has warned of "everlasting" consequences after the US carried out a "very successful attack" on three of its nuclear sites.

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has warned the US strikes "will have everlasting consequences" and that his country "reserves all options" to retaliate. President Donald Trump announced on social media that the attack included a strike on the heavily protected Fordow enrichment plant - which is buried deep under a mountain in the Iranian city of Qom. The other sites hit during the early hours of Sunday morning were at Natanz and Isfahan.

READ MORE: Iran Israel LIVE: Iran considering 'all options' after US strikes on three nuclear sites

Araghchi branded the move "outrageous" and vowed to defend Iran's "sovereignty, interest, and people." Writing on X, the foreign minister said: "The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences," Mr Araghchi wrote on X. "Each and every member of the UN must be alarmed over this extremely dangerous, lawless and criminal behavior.

"In accordance with the UN Charter and its provisions allowing a legitimate response in self-defense, Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people."

Tensions are spiraling as Iran has urgently called for an emergency meeting with the UN, demanding action to "maintain international peace and condemn the US strikes," according to Iranian state media. Meanwhile, chaos has erupted inside Israel. In a retaliatory blow, Iranian missiles have reportedly struck ten different locations across the country, according to Israeli state broadcaster KAN.

The night sky over Tel Aviv lit up with multiple explosions, as panicked residents reported loud blasts echoing through the city. Israeli media confirmed that missiles have slammed into northern and central areas, including Haifa, Ness Ziona, Rishon LeZion, and Tel Aviv itself.

The fighting was sparked by Israel launching a surprise barrage of attacks on sites in Iran on June 13, which Israeli officials said was necessary to head off what they claimed was an imminent threat that Iran would build nuclear bombs. Iran has retaliated with a series of missile and drone strikes in Israel, while Israel has continued to strike sites in Iran.

Responding to the US' attack, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "Iran's nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.

"The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis."