US, Israel Strike Iran’s Nuclear Facilities, Set Back Program

Jun. 26, 2025, 6:32 pm ET

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30-Second Take

  • Recent airstrikes by the US and Israel have significantly damaged Iran’s nuclear facilities.
  • The strikes have set back Iran’s nuclear program by several years, according to various assessments.
  • Iran is assessing the damage and planning to resume its nuclear operations.

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Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

The US and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities starting on June 13, 2025. These strikes targeted key sites, including the Fordow and Natanz facilities, causing substantial damage to Iran’s nuclear program.

Core Players

  • United States – Led the airstrikes with support from Israel.
  • Israel – Participated in the airstrikes and provided critical intelligence.
  • Iran – The target of the airstrikes, with significant damage to its nuclear facilities.
  • International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) – Monitoring the situation and ready to resume inspections when safety conditions allow.

Key Numbers

  • June 13, 2025: Airstrikes began against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
  • 3-5%, 20%, 60%: Enrichment levels of uranium stockpiles Iran still retains.
  • Several years: Estimated time for Iran to restore its enrichment capabilities to pre-strike levels.
  • June 24, 2025: Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization announced plans to resume nuclear operations.

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The Catalyst

The airstrikes were a response to concerns over Iran’s advancing nuclear program. The US and Israel aimed to significantly set back Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons.

“Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran,” stated President Trump, emphasizing the success of the strikes.

Inside Forces

The strikes targeted critical infrastructure, including centrifuges and enrichment facilities. The Israel Atomic Energy Commission assessed that the Fordow facility was rendered inoperable.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that certain facilities were “badly damaged,” while the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Mohammed Eslami, stated that Iran is assessing the damage and planning to resume operations.

Power Dynamics

The US and Israel have demonstrated significant power and influence in this operation. The strikes were supported by both countries, with the US providing critical airpower and Israel contributing intelligence.

President Trump has stated that the US would not allow Iran to rebuild its uranium facilities and is willing to strike again to prevent it.

Outside Impact

The international community is closely watching the situation. The IAEA is ready to resume inspections when safety conditions allow, and other nations are assessing the implications of these strikes on regional stability.

The destruction of Iran’s enrichment capabilities has global implications, particularly in terms of nuclear proliferation and regional security.

Future Forces

Iran faces significant challenges in restoring its nuclear program. The country must rebuild or replace damaged facilities, which could take several years.

The US and Israel have made it clear that they will continue to monitor and act against any attempts by Iran to revive its nuclear weapons program.

Data Points

  • June 13, 2025: Airstrikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities began.
  • June 21, 2025: The US targeted three nuclear facilities in Iran.
  • June 24, 2025: Iran announced plans to resume nuclear operations.
  • Several key nuclear scientists were killed in the strikes, further hindering Iran’s program.

The recent airstrikes have significantly altered the landscape of Iran’s nuclear program. As the situation evolves, the international community will continue to monitor Iran’s efforts to restore its capabilities and the responses of the US and Israel.