US-Israel War on Iran Day 22: Natanz Nuclear Site Targeted as Conflict Hits Global Bases

As of Saturday, March 21, 2026, the conflict led by the United States and Israel against Iran—codenamed Operation Epic Fury—has reached its 22nd day. The war has evolved from a decapitation strike into a massive regional confrontation. Today’s major escalation involves a direct strike on Iran's most sensitive nuclear infrastructure and an attempted Iranian retaliatory strike on a critical US-UK base in the Indian Ocean.

Our previous report on United States, Israel, and Iran war:

• West Asia on Fire: Iran Names New Supreme Leader Amid Escalating War with Israel and U.S.

• US-Israel-Iran War Day 19: Massive Retaliation Hits Tel Aviv; Global Energy Crisis Deepens

Key Updates (March 21, 2026):

• Natanz Nuclear Strike: The US and Israel conducted a coordinated strike on the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility this morning. Iran's Atomic Energy Organization confirmed the attack but reported no leakage of radioactive materials, stating the core underground sections remain secure.

• Diego Garcia Attacked: Iran fired two intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK base at Diego Garcia. UK sources confirmed the attack was "unsuccessful," with no significant damage reported to the strategic Indian Ocean hub.

• Beirut Offensive: Israel launched a massive wave of strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting Hezbollah command centers. Lebanese authorities report over 1,000 dead and 1 million people displaced since the northern front reopened.

• Casualty Count: Current estimates place Iranian casualties at over 1,444 killed (Health Ministry) to as high as 5,300 (Hengaw), including the confirmed deaths of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib.

Diplomatic and Economic Fallout

President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the US is getting close to meeting its objectives and may consider "winding down" major combat operations, though he explicitly ruled out a ceasefire.

• Oil Crisis: To stabilize global markets, the US Treasury issued a 30-day waiver for the sale of Iranian-origin oil currently on vessels at sea. However, the Strait of Hormuz remains a primary chokepoint.

• Indian Nationals: The Indian government confirmed that 3.3 lakh Indians have been repatriated from West Asia since February 28, while 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain stranded in the Persian Gulf.

What Comes Next?

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that strikes will "increase significantly" starting Sunday, March 22. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed willingness to consider proposals for a "complete and permanent end" to the war, provided there are guarantees against future "US aggression."