Iran Reports Significant Damage to Nuclear Sites from War with Israel

 Iran announced that its nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan sustained “serious” damage during a 12-day conflict with Israel in June 2025, confirming earlier U.S. intelligence reports. 

President Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking on June 26, acknowledged that U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on June 21 targeted enrichment sites, destroying 60% of Natanz’s underground infrastructure and collapsing Fordow’s entrance. The attacks followed Iran’s launch of 200 ballistic missiles, killing 24 Israelis, while Israeli retaliatory strikes claimed 224 Iranian lives.

The damaged sites, critical to Iran’s uranium enrichment program, housed 408.6 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium, which was relocated before the strikes. Iran insists its nuclear program remains intact, with plans to rebuild by 2027, costing $5 billion. The conflict, halted by a U.S.-Qatar-brokered ceasefire on June 23, has strained Iran’s economy, with oil exports dropping 10% to 1.5 million barrels daily. Pezeshkian warned of potential withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if sanctions intensify, escalating global tensions.

The war has disrupted Middle East stability, with oil prices rising to $70 per barrel. Iran’s parliament voted to halt IAEA inspections, prompting fears of a nuclear arms race. Diplomatic efforts, led by Qatar, aim to resume talks by Q4 2025, but Israel’s continued alerts signal ongoing risks.