Iran has officially confirmed that a recent U.S. airstrike caused serious damage to its underground Fordow nuclear facility, marking a dramatic escalation in the already tense standoff between Tehran and Washington.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday that the strike, carried out with advanced bunker-buster munitions, “seriously and heavily damaged” the Fordow enrichment plant — one of Iran’s most fortified and sensitive nuclear installations.
The attack was part of a broader U.S.-led operation that also targeted Iran’s nuclear sites at Natanz and Isfahan. According to officials, the damage at Fordow is currently being assessed by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, which will submit a full report to the government in the coming days.
Strategic Blow to Iran’s Nuclear Program
Military experts say the use of GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs suggests the Fordow facility — buried deep inside a mountain — was a primary focus of the assault. U.S. intelligence assessments reportedly indicate the strikes could delay Iran’s nuclear enrichment capability by up to two years.
However, Iranian officials have hinted that some sensitive equipment and materials may have been relocated before the attacks, potentially minimizing the long-term setback to their nuclear ambitions.
Satellite imagery reviewed by analysts suggests extensive structural damage, though the exact status of the underground centrifuges remains unclear.
Diplomatic Fallout and IAEA Tensions
In response to the airstrikes, Iran’s parliament passed emergency legislation suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Under the new law, international inspections must now receive approval from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council — a move widely seen as a retaliation against what Tehran calls “aggressive and unlawful actions” by the U.S. and its allies.
The IAEA has expressed concern over restricted access, warning that Iran’s latest steps could further undermine efforts to ensure transparency and oversight of its nuclear program.
Regional and Global Repercussions
The airstrikes and Iran’s suspension of IAEA access have drawn sharp reactions from global powers. While the United States defended the operation as a necessary measure to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, countries like Russia and China have condemned the attack, warning of renewed instability in the region.
In a televised address, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed that the country would continue its nuclear activities “with greater determination,” and accused the U.S. of sabotaging diplomatic solutions.
The Israeli government, which has long opposed Iran’s nuclear program, reportedly supported the operation and provided intelligence assistance. However, it has not formally commented on the extent of its role in the strikes.
What’s Next?
Tensions remain high, and the situation could further escalate depending on Iran’s next move. Tehran has not ruled out military retaliation and is believed to be consulting with its regional allies on a potential response.
Meanwhile, international observers fear that the breakdown in IAEA oversight, combined with the latest military developments, could push the region closer to a broader confrontation.
The coming days will be critical as the international community watches for Iran’s official damage assessment, any possible retaliatory actions, and the future of diplomatic efforts to curb the country’s nuclear ambitions.
