Israel Claims Airstrikes Have Set Back Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions by Two Years
In the midst of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, Israeli officials have stated that their recent military operations have significantly delayed Iran’s ability to develop a nuclear weapon. According to statements published in the German newspaper Bild, Israel’s foreign minister declared that the country’s targeted attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure have pushed back Tehran’s nuclear timeline by at least two to three years.
This comes after a series of intensive Israeli airstrikes aimed at Iran’s nuclear sites, including locations in Natanz and Isfahan, which are known for uranium enrichment and research activities. The attacks reportedly caused heavy damage to facilities and led to the deaths of high-ranking military and nuclear personnel associated with Iran’s weapons program.
The Israeli government has defended the strikes as preemptive measures taken to neutralize what they perceive as an imminent threat. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel cannot afford to wait until Iran possesses a functional nuclear weapon.
Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence assessments, while confirming that Iran’s nuclear program has advanced, suggest that Iran was not on the verge of acquiring a nuclear bomb. These findings have led some analysts to question whether Israel’s operations were more strategic than reactive.
Global reactions have been mixed. The European Union and the United Nations have called for immediate de-escalation to avoid a wider conflict. Russia and China have criticized Israel’s unilateral action and warned against any further provocation that could destabilize the region.
In retaliation, Iran launched a number of missile and drone strikes toward Israeli territory. Though most were intercepted, a few made impact, resulting in casualties and structural damage. Iran’s leadership has vowed to defend its sovereignty and warned that further attacks would be met with equal force.
Israeli officials, however, remain firm in their position and have indicated that more operations could follow if Iran continues its nuclear activities. The situation remains highly volatile, with both nations appearing poised for further military engagement unless international mediation efforts succeed in diffusing the crisis.
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