Strikes Hit Key Sites, But Questions Remain
Iran nuclear weapon program targeted by U.S. and Israel, but experts question Trump’s claim it’s “totally destroyed.”
Experts and global watchdogs, however, argue that it is much too soon to declare success.
400 kg of Enriched Uranium Unaccounted For
One of the biggest red flags: 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity remain publicly unaccounted for.
“It’s far too soon for the United States or Israel to claim that Iran’s nuclear program has been destroyed,” said Kelsey Davenport of the Arms Control Association.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed visible damage at the targeted sites but also stated it lacks access to assess subterranean damage, particularly at Fordo.
Satellite Images Raise Suspicion
Maxar Technologies satellite images taken before the strike showed 16 cargo trucks at Fordo, which disappeared by the next day — suggesting the possibility that nuclear materials were moved ahead of the bombings.
Iran had warned the IAEA just days before the strikes that it would take “special measures” to protect nuclear materials.
Can the Uranium Be Tracked?
The enriched uranium is reportedly stored in mobile canisters the size of scuba tanks, making them extremely difficult to track. Experts believe if moved, the materials are likely at fortified locations, complicating any future military response.
“They could be anywhere,” said Davenport.
“Politically, there’s greater impetus now to weaponize.”
Iran’s Remaining Capabilities
IAEA Director Rafael Grossi and other analysts have warned for months that the agency has lost track of advanced centrifuges and does not know the full extent of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
According to former U.S. intelligence officer Eric Brewer, Iran could still rebuild its covert nuclear weapons program, even after the strikes.
Weaponization a Real Possibility
Experts caution that Iran may now be more politically motivated to pursue weaponization after being targeted. Without full verification, there is no guarantee that Tehran’s nuclear ambitions have been derailed.
Source: NBC News
