Trump Orders Airstrikes on Iran Nuclear Sites Bitcoin Drops 10%

On June 22, 2025, President Donald Trump authorized airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, marking a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran relations. The strikes, which were carried out by the U.S. military, aimed to halt Iran's nuclear enrichment activities. Trump stated that the objective was to destroy Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity and to stop the nuclear threat posed by what he described as the world's No. 1 state sponsor of terror. He also warned that if Iran did not make peace, future attacks would be far greater and easier.

The airstrikes targeted key nuclear sites, including the Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow facilities, using B-2 bombers and involving the use of bunker-buster bombs and Tomahawk missiles. Trump described the operation as a "spectacular military success," claiming that Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities had been "completely and totally obliterated."

The geopolitical tensions resulting from the airstrikes had immediate and significant impacts on the crypto markets. Major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum experienced substantial drops as traders responded swiftly by exiting riskier assets. This led to a dramatic $636 million in market liquidations, illustrating the crypto market's sensitivity to geopolitical tensions. Historical trends show similar market reactions during crises, with large-cap cryptos being heavily impacted. Continued volatility reflects ongoing investor caution amid geopolitical risks.

Comparisons can be drawn to the Iran-U.S. tensions in 2020, which also disrupted markets. Geopolitical conflicts often lead to temporary selloffs, heavily impacting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum due to their global exposure. Experts predict potential market stabilization, drawing on past market behavior during geopolitical crises. Historical data reinforces the likelihood of recovery, though short-term volatility remains a concern for traders reacting to geopolitical developments.

The airstrikes drew immediate reactions from world leaders and international organizations. Saudi Arabia expressed "great concern" over the developments and called for restraint and de-escalation. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced an emergency meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors to address the situation. Iran's Foreign Minister condemned the attacks as "outrageous" and "lawless," reserving the right to defend its sovereignty. Israel's President welcomed the strikes, hoping they would lead to a better future for the Middle East and the urgent release of hostages in Gaza.

The United Nations Secretary-General described the U.S. strikes as a "dangerous escalation" and called for diplomacy and peace. Yemeni Houthi officials indicated that their response to the U.S. attack on Iran was "only a matter of time," while airlines continued to avoid large parts of the Middle East airspace due to the heightened tensions. Investors braced for potential oil price spikes and a rush to safe-haven assets, anticipating market volatility in the wake of the escalating conflict.

The airstrikes also had immediate consequences on the ground. At least 16 people were injured in Israel after Iran launched two waves of missiles in retaliation for the U.S. bombing of its nuclear sites. The Israeli military reported intercepting more than 450 missiles and around 1,000 drones, with significant damage reported in central Israel. The conflict has resulted in at least 25 deaths and numerous injuries since it began on June 13, 2025.

The situation remains fluid, with world leaders and international organizations calling for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. The airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites have raised concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict, with implications for oil prices, inflation, and global economic stability. The broader uncertainty and risk aversion among investors reflect the potential for further escalation and its impact on global markets.