Iran has officially confirmed that its nuclear sites were badly damaged in recent US airstrikes, calling the impact “serious and significant.” This statement was made by Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, marking the first time the country has openly admitted the extent of the destruction.
The attacks, known as Operation Midnight Hammer, were carried out last weekend by US B-2 bombers. They targeted three key nuclear sites—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—using powerful bunker-busting bombs.
While Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had earlier downplayed the damage, calling US claims “exaggerated,” Araghchi gave a more honest and alarming account. He also warned that Iran might end cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN’s nuclear watchdog.
Araghchi said that Iran has a law in place that may stop all inspections and reporting to the IAEA. He also mentioned that the IAEA chief, Rafael Grossi, would not be welcome in Iran right now.
Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, also admitted that the nuclear sites were “badly damaged.” According to American and Israeli officials, the strikes have set back Iran’s nuclear program by several years.
US President Donald Trump defended the military action, comparing it to the atomic bombings that ended World War II. He said, “This ended the war,” referring to tensions with Iran.
Still, there are many unanswered questions. Iran has not disclosed the status of its 400 kilograms of enriched uranium, which is enough to build nearly 10 nuclear bombs. It also hasn’t said whether its advanced centrifuges survived the attacks. Only IAEA inspectors can confirm this—if they are allowed to return.
Read more: Trump Says Iran Missile Strikes Caused Heavy Damage, Even Though Intelligence Is Unclear
Experts believe Iran is being secretive on purpose to gain an advantage in upcoming talks. Analyst Sina Azodi said Iran is “playing a diplomatic game” by keeping the world uncertain about its nuclear status.
Although no agreement has been reached yet, the White House remains hopeful about peace talks. US officials, with help from countries like Qatar, are planning to continue behind-the-scenes negotiations next week.
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However, Araghchi warned that the recent conflict has changed everything. He said, “Diplomacy must adjust to this new reality.”
