A recent assessment from American intelligence indicates that Iran’s Fordo Nuclear Site sustained significant damage following U.S. military strikes in March 2024. The facility, known for being deeply buried and heavily fortified, was reportedly struck by twelve bombs dropped by U.S. Air Force B-2 bombers. This new analysis suggests that the attacks may have not only severely impacted operational capabilities but could also have destroyed critical components necessary for Iran to advance its nuclear program.
While two other nuclear sites were also targeted during the strikes, the damage there was not as extensive. Nonetheless, U.S. officials noted that key facilities essential for fabricating nuclear weapons were destroyed, potentially leading to reconstruction efforts that could span several years.
Despite the scale of the damage, officials have stated that the strikes likely did not eliminate Iran’s stockpile of near-bomb-grade fuel, which could be used to produce up to ten nuclear weapons. However, the loss of manufacturing facilities means that even if Iran can recover this fuel from the rubble, it would be of little practical use without the means to convert it into a weapon.
Impact on Iran’s Nuclear Capabilities
The assessment sheds light on the effectiveness of the coordinated Israeli and U.S. military operations against Iran. The Fordo site, regarded as Iran’s most advanced and secure nuclear enrichment facility, is now believed to be significantly incapacitated. This development may hinder Iran’s ability to produce nuclear fuel for a considerable time.
U.S. and Israeli officials report that Iran likely retains a stockpile of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, just shy of levels typically associated with nuclear weapons. However, they believe that much of this stockpile is buried under debris, with only the uranium located at Iran’s nuclear laboratory in Isfahan remaining accessible following the strikes.
The ongoing debate within the U.S. government centers on the extent to which these airstrikes have delayed Iran’s overall nuclear ambitions and its capability to utilize existing uranium supplies for weapon development.
As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the ramifications of these military actions are likely to influence diplomatic efforts and security strategies involving Iran and its nuclear program. The situation remains fluid, and further assessments will be essential in understanding the long-term impacts of these strikes on international stability and nuclear proliferation.