The White House maintains that last year’s military action, Operation Midnight Hammer, effectively dismantled Iran’s nuclear program, despite recent assertions by a senior US official that Tehran may be only a week away from possessing the necessary material for a nuclear weapon.
Conflicting Assessments
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday that Operation Midnight Hammer, launched in June 2025, was an “overwhelmingly successful mission” that “did, in fact, obliterate Iran’s nuclear facilities.” However, President Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, stated on Saturday that Iran is nearing the capability to produce a nuclear weapon, claiming they are “probably a week away from having industrial-grade bomb-making material.”
President Trump has consistently praised the attack, asserting it eliminated Iran’s nuclear program and ushered in a period of “peace” in the Middle East. Despite these claims, US and Iranian officials are currently engaged in a third round of negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear deal and preventing further conflict, eight months after the strikes.
Uncertainty and Ongoing Negotiations
Leavitt stated that the destruction of Iran’s nuclear program has been “verified” by both President Trump and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). She added that the administration’s goal is to ensure Iran never again poses a nuclear threat to the United States and its allies. However, the IAEA’s chief, Rafael Grossi, indicated last year that Iran could resume uranium enrichment “in a matter of months” following the US attack.
The Pentagon assessed that the strikes set back Iran’s nuclear program by one to two years, but there has been no official confirmation that Iran has restarted uranium enrichment. Tensions remain high, with the US continuing to amass military assets near Iran, and Trump has renewed threats of further attacks should Iran attempt to rebuild its nuclear or missile programs.
Iran maintains It’s not seeking a nuclear weapon and has proposed agreeing to minimal uranium enrichment under strict IAEA supervision in exchange for sanctions relief. However, President Trump has repeatedly insisted on zero enrichment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Operation Midnight Hammer?
Operation Midnight Hammer was a US military attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities in June 2025, described by the White House as an “overwhelmingly successful mission.”
What is the current status of negotiations between the US and Iran?
US and Iranian officials are currently holding the third round of negotiations this year to reach a nuclear deal and avert another war.
What is the disagreement between the US and Iran regarding uranium enrichment?
Iran has proposed minimal uranium enrichment under IAEA supervision, while President Trump is seeking zero enrichment.
Given the conflicting reports and ongoing negotiations, what impact will these developments have on the future of nuclear talks and regional stability?
