In brief
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, revealed on Thursday that the nation's nuclear facilities have encountered "significant and serious damages" following recent U.S. military strikes on three major sites. This disclosure marks the first official recognition of the extent of damage, contrasting sharply with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's earlier remarks that downplayed the effects of the attacks.
In an interview aired on state television, Araghchi noted that while the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran continues to assess the damages, the losses are considerable and the facilities have sustained serious injuries. His statement contradicts Khamenei's assertions that U.S. actions had minimal impact, deeming claims of destruction as exaggerated.Additionally, Araghchi hinted at a potential halt in Iran's cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the nuclear oversight body, suggesting that the agency’s director, Rafael Grossi, may not be granted access to inspect the country's nuclear sites for the foreseeable future.In a response to the U.S. strikes targeting the Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan facilities, Iran's Guardian Council has also endorsed a bill passed by hard-liner members of Parliament aimed at virtually banning any collaboration with the IAEA, signaling a significant shift in Iran's approach to international nuclear oversight.As tensions escalate over the nuclear issue, ongoing assessments of the damage continue, leaving open questions about the future of Iran's nuclear program and its compliance with international agreements.
