Episode 3 examines the complex aftermath of Operation Midnight Hammer's nuclear facility strikes. Alexandra Reeves analyzes conflicting damage assessments between Pentagon claims of "obliteration" versus Iranian assertions of "superficial" damage, while satellite imagery reveals massive crater formations, structural destruction at target sites. The episode explores immediate political fallout including constitutional questions about presidential authorization without Congressional approval, criticism from unexpected Trump allies, international responses ranging from Israeli support to European concern to Russian condemnation. Reeves details Iran's retaliatory missile strikes against Israel, parliamentary votes threatening Strait of Hormuz closure affecting global oil supplies, economic market volatility, diplomatic complications for future nuclear negotiations. The analysis covers strategic implications for regional power balance, nuclear proliferation precedents, alliance relationships, demonstrating how tactical military success creates broader geopolitical consequences still unfolding across Middle Eastern security architecture.
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