Iran remains committed to nuclear weapon development despite heavy damage to its facilities from U.S. and Israeli attacks. American strikes labeled “Operation Midnight Hammer” in late June obliterated key enrichment sites. Iran’s leadership vows to continue enrichment under diplomatic cover.
Iran launched an aggressive nuclear push in 2025, enriching uranium to nearly 60%—just shy of weapons-grade—prompting swift response from the U.S. and Israel. On June 22, President Trump ordered strikes targeting Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan using bunker‑buster bombs and Tomahawks. The IAEA acknowledges “enormous damage” and Iran’s foreign minister confirms “serious damage” to those sites.
Despite the destruction, Iran refuses to back down. Supreme Leader Khamenei claims the attacks achieved nothing, but even Iran’s own foreign minister admits otherwise . The regime halted cooperation with the IAEA on July 2. Iran’s UN ambassador insists enrichment will continue, asserting the right to nuclear research under the NPT.
Pentagon assessments estimate the strikes set Iran’s nuclear program back 1–2 years. Yet Senate Republicans, including Lindsey Graham, remain skeptical—highlighting Iran’s ongoing ambition and uncertainty over inspectors’ access .
Diplomatically, Tehran shifts tone. Experts warn Iran may leverage negotiation as a tactic to mask its real goal—nuclear weaponization. With inspectors barred and enrichment streaming ahead, Iran pursues modern centrifuge technology, indicating high intent toward weapon-grade uranium .
President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu plan to press Iran on inspections and enrichment during an upcoming White House meeting. The discussion will shape future U.S.–Israel strategy on preventing nuclear proliferation.
