Intelligence: U.S. Strikes Failed to Destroy Key Elements of Iran’s Nuclear Program

U.S. airstrikes did not destroy the main components of Iran’s nuclear program, which Tehran is estimated to be able to restore within a few months.

CNN reported on this, citing a U.S. intelligence report.

The preliminary assessments contradict the bold statements of President Donald Trump, who claimed that the strikes had “completely destroyed” Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities. Additionally, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured that Iran’s nuclear ambitions had been “wiped out.”

However, the information leak from intelligence officials was met with resistance in the form of accusations of fabrication from officials who claimed that the report contains erroneous assessments and distorted data.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told CNN that the report was allegedly fabricated by one “unreliable official.”

According to her, U.S. bombers dropped 14 bombs weighing 13,000 kilograms each on the Fordow facility, destroying all the equipment. She linked the information about the “failure” of the operation to a political agenda—an attempt to undermine Donald Trump’s achievements.

Despite this, additional intelligence is being gathered to provide a clearer picture of the consequences of using such powerful weapons.

Israeli officials also stated that the airstrikes had insufficient effect and, according to CNN, had expected a more significant outcome.

Additionally, Michael McCaul, the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman, acknowledged that the strikes caused severe damage but did not completely destroy the facilities.

Expert Jeffrey Lewis, who analyzed satellite images, also confirmed that key underground sites—particularly near Natanz, Isfahan, and Parchin—remained intact, allowing Iran to quickly restore its nuclear program.

On June 22, 2025, the U.S. launched a combined strike on three Iranian nuclear sites. In total, three key facilities of Iran’s nuclear program were targeted.

One of them was Fordow, a uranium enrichment plant located in a remote mountainous area. It is considered critically important for Iran’s nuclear program. Other targets included sites in Natanz and Isfahan.

Six B-2 bombers were involved in the strike on Fordow, while one bomber was used for the strike on Natanz. At the same time, submarines also participated in the attacks on Natanz and Isfahan, launching 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles.