Washington
The Pentagon said US airstrikes last month on three major nuclear sites in Iran have set back the country’s nuclear program by up to two years. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that intelligence showed Iran’s facilities had been heavily damaged. The strikes, carried out on June 22, targeted Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan nuclear sites.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi admitted that the facilities suffered serious harm, though the full extent of damage at Fordow is still unclear. Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation is now checking the sites to understand the impact.
In response to the attacks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered a new law to stop Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). According to Iranian officials, this move will continue until Iran feels its sovereignty and safety are fully protected. Any future inspections of nuclear sites will need approval from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
The IAEA said it is aware of Iran’s new decision but is waiting for official details. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, expressed deep concern and urged Iran to continue working with the IAEA.
US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce called Iran’s move “unacceptable” and asked Iran to return to peaceful talks. She said Iran should fully cooperate with the UN agency to avoid further tension.
These events have increased fears about stability in the Middle East. Many countries are now watching closely to see if Iran will choose a path toward peace or continue to resist international inspections.