A recent series of airstrikes by U.S. and Israeli forces has significantly impacted Iran’s nuclear program, particularly targeting key facilities. The strikes, which began nearly two weeks ago, have raised questions about the extent of the damage and the future of Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
One of the most heavily fortified sites attacked was the Fordo fuel enrichment facility, located deep within a mountain and protected by nearly 300 feet of granite. This site was known for housing thousands of centrifuges used to enrich uranium to near weapons-grade levels. U.S. military planners had meticulously prepared for this strike over the past decade, utilizing advanced computer models to identify vulnerabilities in the facility.
The Pentagon deployed the Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-pound bunker-busting bomb, to penetrate Fordo’s defenses. B-2 bombers dropped these bombs down ventilation shafts, aiming to cause maximum damage. General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, described the operation as a well-executed strike. However, experts caution that targeting such a deeply buried facility is extremely challenging, and the actual damage may not be as extensive as claimed.
While U.S. officials assert that the strike severely damaged Iran’s nuclear capabilities, there are conflicting reports about the condition of the Fordo site. The Israel Atomic Energy Commission stated that Fordo was rendered "inoperable," and the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency indicated that the centrifuges were likely no longer operational. Nonetheless, some analysts suggest that determining the true extent of the damage may require on-site inspections.
In addition to Fordo, the strikes also targeted other key facilities. The Natanz enrichment site, previously subject to sabotage, was hit on the first day of the conflict. Israeli forces destroyed surface facilities and attempted to strike underground centrifuge halls. The U.S. followed up with strikes aimed at these underground facilities, which are believed to have suffered significant damage.
The Isfahan site, crucial for preparing uranium for enrichment, was also attacked. Israel’s initial strikes destroyed buildings used for converting uranium into metal, a vital step in nuclear weapon development. U.S. forces later launched additional missiles, further devastating the above-ground structures. However, some underground tunnels, which may have stored enriched uranium, are thought to be intact.
The Arak reactor, which was never operational, was also struck, destroying its concrete dome and laboratory. This facility was not actively contributing to Iran’s nuclear program, but its destruction has implications for future capabilities.
Despite these attacks, experts warn that Iran may still retain significant nuclear capabilities. Before the strikes, it was estimated that Iran had over 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium. The Iranian government has indicated that it has taken measures to protect this material, possibly relocating it to undisclosed locations.
In a press conference, President Trump claimed the strikes effectively obliterated Iran’s nuclear program, asserting that no other military could have achieved such results. However, analysts caution that while the strikes have caused considerable damage, Iran’s nuclear ambitions may not be entirely thwarted.
As the situation unfolds, many experts agree that a long-term solution requires diplomatic efforts and agreements. Without a cooperative framework for verification and monitoring, the threat of Iran’s nuclear program may persist, regardless of the recent military actions.