US assessment finds American strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites
In a recent military operation, the United States targeted three Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—causing significant but varied damage, according to a U.S. assessment by five current and former officials. The Fordo site, a key component of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, was mostly destroyed, potentially setting back enrichment capabilities by up to two years. In contrast, Natanz and Isfahan sustained less severe destruction, with the possibility of resuming enrichment within months if Iran opts to do so, the officials noted.
President Donald Trump hailed the strikes as “a spectacular military success,” asserting, “Iran’s key enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated.” However, the assessment reveals a more complex reality, with ongoing intelligence suggesting greater damage than initially reported.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly reinforced the narrative, stating, “Operation Midnight Hammer totally obliterated Iran’s nuclear capabilities.” Similarly, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell declared, “Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz were completely and totally obliterated.”
A more extensive U.S. Central Command plan to strike additional sites over weeks was considered but rejected by Trump, who cited concerns over prolonged conflict and high casualties on both sides, according to officials. The rejected plan aimed to “truly decimate” Iran’s nuclear program, one former official said. Moreover, Trump rejected it due to his policy of reducing U.S. military involvement globally. Current discussions within U.S. and Israeli governments focus on potential additional strikes if Iran rebuilds or resumes enrichment activities.
Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. The assessment, briefed to U.S. lawmakers and allies, continues to evolve as intelligence gathering progresses, with officials noting Iran’s compromised air defenses may hinder future rebuilding efforts.