Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Ceasefire Holds as Debate Rages Over Impact of US Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites

IAEA inspectors are seeking site access following US claims of complete demolition that conflict with a low-confidence intelligence assessment.

Image
In this photo released on Thursday, June 26, 2025, by the official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks in a televised speech, under a portrait of the late revolutionary founder Ayatollah Khomeini.
Image
Image

Overview

  • President Trump ordered the US strikes on June 20 targeting Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan with bunker-buster bombs and Tomahawk missiles in support of Israel.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and CIA Director John Ratcliffe have described the operation as historically successful and capable of setting back Iran’s nuclear programme for years.
  • A preliminary US intelligence assessment leaked to the press suggests the strikes only delayed Iran’s nuclear work by months and suffers from low confidence.
  • IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reports missing information on Iran’s enriched uranium and is pushing for verification despite Tehran’s parliament suspending cooperation.
  • After a ceasefire brokered on June 23 continues to hold, US officials are urging Israel to renew negotiations with Hamas and preparing talks with Iranian representatives next week.