Iran’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed that its nuclear facilities sustained significant damage due to recent American strikes. Despite these developments, a ceasefire appears to be holding between Iran and Israel, raising tentative hopes for a longer-term peace agreement. However, Iran maintains that it will not abandon its nuclear program.
The ceasefire, which was established after 12 days of conflict, experienced early tensions as both sides accused each other of violations. On a more positive note, US President Donald Trump indicated at a NATO summit that the ceasefire is progressing well, asserting that Iran would not be able to develop nuclear weapons.
In a sign of defiance, Iran’s parliament voted to fast-track a proposal to limit cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This decision follows criticisms from Iranian leaders regarding the IAEA’s response to the American strikes that damaged Iran’s nuclear capacities. The speaker of parliament announced intentions to expedite Iran’s nuclear development in the absence of adequate security for its facilities.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has reached out to Iran to discuss the resumption of inspections, highlighting the need to reassess Iran’s highly enriched uranium following the strikes. The effectiveness and impact of the American attacks are being scrutinised, with claims that they have severely disrupted Iran’s nuclear ambitions. American special envoy Steve Witkoff noted that the strikes achieved their goal of demolishing Iran’s enrichment capacities.
Despite assurances from the US that the strikes have conclusively weakened Iran’s nuclear capabilities, concerns remain. A US intelligence report suggested that Iran’s program might only be delayed for a few months, a claim Trump dismissed, asserting it would take years to rebuild. Israeli military sources echoed the sentiment, indicating that Iran’s nuclear program has indeed been significantly hindered.
As negotiations and regional tensions continue to evolve, the situation remains complex, with both sides poised to navigate the aftermath of the strikes and the fragile peace that has emerged.