Jul 18, 2025, 12:00 AM
Jul 17, 2025, 12:50 PM

US and Israel plan new airstrikes to prevent Iran's nuclear resurgence

Highlights
  • Recent US airstrikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, resulting in the destruction of the Fordo site while Natanz and Isfahan remain partially operational.
  • Discussions between US and Israeli officials have focused on potential new military action to prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear capabilities.
  • The ongoing developments indicate that both nations are prepared for further strikes as a precautionary measure against Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Story

In recent weeks, the United States and Israel have been discussing the possibility of launching new airstrikes against Iran. This consideration arises following a series of airstrikes carried out by American B-2 stealth bombers on June 22, 2025. These strikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities located at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, which have been critical to Iran's uranium enrichment program. Initial assessments after these strikes indicated that while the Fordo facility was completely destroyed, the Natanz and Isfahan facilities suffered only partial damage and could be operational again within a few months. The outcomes have raised concerns regarding Iran's capability to rebuild its nuclear program, prompting deliberations for further military action to prevent this. The discussions included a proposal for a broader campaign that would target six sites instead of the three initially hit, but President Donald Trump opted for a more limited operation. Intel assessments have contradicted the president's assertions about the completeness of the destruction, suggesting partial capability remains at two key sites. After the airstrikes, Iranian officials, including foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, visited China to seek support, underscoring Iran's precarious standing after the attacks. China's role, however, has been cautious, with its government maintaining a stance of criticism towards the violence without actively mediating in the conflict. As the situation evolves, both the United States and Israel remain committed to ensuring that Iran cannot replenish its nuclear program, which they consider a significant threat to regional and global stability.

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