Pentagon Admits Iran Nuclear Capabilities Intact Despite Strikes, Iran Signals Defiance

Despite President Donald Trump's claims that U.S. strikes had "obliterated" Iran's nuclear sites, Pentagon assessments indicate the damage likely set back Iran's nuclear program by only one to two years. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that military attacks cannot destroy Iran's scientific knowledge or uranium enrichment capabilities, which he described as deeply rooted in national resilience and technological advancement. Araghchi highlighted that Iran’s nuclear program remains a source of national pride and that the country is determined to swiftly repair any damage and continue its peaceful nuclear development. Former U.N. weapons inspector Scott Ritter asserted that Iran could build a nuclear weapon within days if the Supreme Leader decides to do so, noting the lack of significant damage to key facilities and enriched uranium stocks. The International Atomic Energy Agency and U.S. intelligence have found no evidence of Iran systematically developing nuclear weapons, but tensions remain high after recent U.S. and Israeli military actions. Araghchi also noted that Iran is cautious about resuming negotiations with the U.S., given ongoing military pressure that undermines diplomatic efforts.