The United States’ recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities conducted in coordination with Israel have delayed Iran’s nuclear program by approximately one to two years, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, RKS News reports.
Speaking ten days after the June 22 attacks, Parnell stated that the damage to Iran’s capabilities is significant, although the Pentagon’s tone was more measured than initial U.S. claims, which had suggested a decades-long setback to Iran’s nuclear development.
The coordinated strikes targeted three major nuclear sites Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan with over 30 bunker-busting munitions, including Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Despite the reported delays, the UN’s nuclear watchdog (IAEA) and independent experts warn that Iran could resume uranium enrichment within months, as it may have moved enriched stockpiles to undisclosed locations before the strikes.
Senior U.S. officials, however, have denied reports suggesting any such pre-strike movements by Iran.
