Recent US intelligence reports reveal that military operations have substantially impacted Iran’s nuclear capabilities, setting it back approximately two years, according to Pentagon sources, quoted by AFP on Wednesday.Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell informed reporters, “We have degraded their program by one to two years at least — intel assessments inside the (Defense) Department assess that.” He subsequently clarified: “We’re thinking probably closer to two years.”Last month, US forces deployed B-2 bombers to strike two Iranian nuclear facilities using powerful GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs, whilst a third location was targeted by Tomahawk cruise missiles from a submarine.On June 13, Israel conducted an extensive aerial operation against Iranian nuclear installations, targeting facilities, nuclear scientists, and senior military officials. The campaign aimed to halt Iran’s nuclear programme, which Tehran maintains is peaceful, though Washington and allies contend it is directed towards developing nuclear weapons.US President Donald Trump had initially sought diplomatic solutions to replace the nuclear agreement he cancelled in 2018 during his first term. However, he ultimately opted for military intervention.The American military operation was extensive, employing over 125 aircraft, including stealth bombers, fighter jets, and refuelling aircraft, alongside a missile-equipped submarine.
