Israel and US strike Natanz uranium enrichment facility, Iran says
Image: The Express Tribune

Israel and US strike Natanz uranium enrichment facility, Iran says

21 March, 2026.Iran.6 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Natanz enrichment facility hit by US-Israeli airstrikes, Iran says.
  • No radiation leakage reported from Natanz strike, per Iranian statements.
  • Additional US Marines and ships deployed to the region amid ongoing conflict.

Natanz Strike Overview

The United States and Israel conducted a fresh airstrike on Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment facility.

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Al-Manar TV LebanonAl-Manar TV Lebanon

Iranian media reported that the US-Israeli aggression targeted the key nuclear facility again.

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This marks another escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict that entered its fourth week.

The facility has become a focal point of military operations due to its strategic importance.

The strike occurred amid heightened tensions throughout the region.

Multiple fronts of conflict involve Iran, Israel, the US, and various regional actors.

Iranian Response

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed success in intercepting another US F-16 fighter jet early Saturday in central Iran.

This demonstrates Iran's air defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.

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Iranian officials emphasized that the strike on Natanz caused extensive damage but resulted in no radiation leakage.

They attempted to reassure both domestic and international audiences about nuclear material safety.

The spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters issued a defiant statement.

They declared that “this war will continue as long as the option of attacking our land remains part of your strategies.”

Regional Escalation

Iran launched retaliatory attacks that reached as far as the United Arab Emirates and Israel.

The UAE reported intercepting three ballistic missiles and eight drones 'launched from Iran' on Saturday.

Authorities stated that their air defense systems responded to incoming threats.

In Israel, 15 people have been killed by Iranian missiles, with four additional deaths in the occupied West Bank.

Drone attacks targeted US military installations in Iraq, including Victory Base near Baghdad.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of the escalating conflict became increasingly apparent.

Brent crude oil prices soared to around $106 per barrel, up from roughly $70 before the war began.

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In response to soaring fuel prices, the Trump administration announced lifting sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded on ships.

This move aimed at stabilizing global energy markets despite the ongoing military confrontation.

The administration deployed three more amphibious assault ships and 2,500 additional marines to the Middle East.

They also requested another $200 billion from Congress to fund the war efforts.

Strategic Targeting

The Natanz facility has been repeatedly targeted throughout the conflict.

This represents a strategic priority for US and Israeli military planners.

Image from The Express Tribune
The Express TribuneThe Express Tribune

Satellite imagery revealed that several buildings appeared damaged after previous strikes.

The United Nations' nuclear watchdog confirmed 'no radiological consequence' from earlier attacks.

The facility had been targeted during the 12-day Iran-Israel war in June 2025.

It had also been struck by the United States, indicating a sustained campaign.

US Policy Contradictions

President Trump's administration has sent mixed signals about the conflict's trajectory.

Trump stated on social media that 'We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East.'

This declaration directly contradicted the simultaneous deployment of additional military forces.

The administration also requested massive funding for continued operations.

The mixed messaging came amid another climb in oil prices that plunged the US stock market.

This approach has created confusion among allies and adversaries about US intentions.

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