Analysts warn Iran regime may still retain nuclear ambitions after sites ‘obliterated’

Decisive Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

Last week, President Donald Trump made a resounding statement, proclaiming that the underground nuclear facilities in Iran targeted by U.S. bombings were “obliterated.” He detailed that combined efforts with Israel resulted in “monumental damage to all nuclear sites in Iran,” delivering a significant blow to their nuclear ambitions.

Confirmation from U.S. Defense and Israeli Intelligence

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the president’s assertions during a briefing. He reported that “CIA can confirm that a body of credible intelligence indicates Iran’s nuclear program has been severely damaged by recent targeted strikes.” Further insights from Israeli intelligence, shared with Fox News Digital, revealed that the facilities in Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan suffered severe and potentially irreversible impairments, crippling Iran’s known enrichment infrastructure.

Continuing Concerns and Future Threats

Despite the clear success of the military operations, there remain unanswered questions about the remnants of Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Analysts have cautioned that, while the overt nuclear sites have been substantially dismantled, secretive components of the program might still be intact. There are also concerns about the potential re-emergence of enriched uranium stockpiles, posing ongoing risks.

Insights from International Watchdogs

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director Rafael Grossi, in an interview with CBS, acknowledged the significant impact of the strikes. However, he also highlighted the necessity for vigilant monitoring to ensure the non-resurgence of nuclear activities in Iran.