NEW DELHI: Recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure have had only a limited effect on Tehran’s weapons development capabilities, according to senior American intelligence officials, casting doubt on the long-term strategic gains of the military campaign.
The airstrikes, launched earlier this month following heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, targeted several key nuclear facilities including underground centrifuge enrichment sites and missile development zones in central Iran. While initial reports touted the mission as a significant blow to Iran’s program, new intelligence assessments suggest otherwise.
Setback Measured in Months, Not Years
A classified report shared with members of Congress indicates that the strikes may have delayed Iran’s nuclear progress by “a few months at best,” with no permanent dismantling of enrichment capabilities. Sources within the intelligence community told reporters that Iran has already begun efforts to rebuild damaged infrastructure and resume operations at underground facilities.
“This was more of a symbolic show of force than a strategic game-changer,” said one U.S. official on condition of anonymity. “Iran’s nuclear knowledge is intact. Their capacity is recoverable.”
Political Fallout and Strategic Questions
The limited effectiveness of the operation is fueling criticism within some policy circles in Washington, where lawmakers are questioning the cost-benefit of using military options without clear diplomatic or containment strategies in place.
The Biden administration has not officially commented on the intelligence findings but has reiterated its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Critics, however, argue that short-term military action without a broader diplomatic framework risks pushing Iran further underground—literally and figuratively.
Global Implications
The developments come at a time of rising instability in the Middle East, with the Israel–Iran ceasefire already under strain. International observers warn that further unilateral actions could derail nuclear diplomacy and prompt Iran to accelerate its enrichment program under the guise of self-defense.
Meanwhile, oil prices spiked briefly after the strikes but have since stabilized, with markets now watching for Iran’s response and any ripple effects across the Strait of Hormuz.
