The Iranian regime has not abandoned its nuclear ambitions despite significant damage to its nuclear facilities following a series of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. Security experts warn that Iran’s primary objective remains the development of a nuclear weapon, with the regime likely using the incident to buy time and reconstitute its program under the guise of diplomatic engagement. The U.S. and Israeli military actions have inflicted considerable damage on key nuclear sites such as Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz, with concerns about the extent of the damage and whether any critical materials were relocated before the strikes. Despite these setbacks, the regime has not shown signs of abandoning its nuclear goals, instead shifting focus toward diplomatic maneuvering and rebuilding efforts.
The Iranian government, represented by its official spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani, has stated that the damage to its nuclear infrastructure is ‘serious,’ underscoring the regime’s commitment to its nuclear program. However, experts caution that the damage may not be extensive enough to halt Iran’s efforts entirely, suggesting that the country may be using the situation to delay negotiations and consolidate resources. This approach aligns with the regime’s broader strategy of ‘rope-a-dope,’ which involves appearing to engage in diplomacy while simultaneously preparing for continued nuclear development. Analysts like Behnam Ben Taleblu from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies argue that Iran’s diplomatic moves are a calculated attempt to buy time, enabling the regime to rebuild and reestablish its nuclear capabilities without facing immediate international pressure.
Further complicating the situation, Iran has suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a move that has drawn condemnation from the U.S. government and raised concerns about the regime’s transparency. The State Department has criticized the decision as ‘unacceptable’ at a time when Iran has an opportunity to reverse course and pursue a path of peace and prosperity. By limiting the IAEA’s access to its nuclear facilities, Iran is effectively using the agency as a bargaining chip, a strategy that experts believe will further prolong its nuclear development efforts. The regime’s actions are indicative of its long-term vision for regional and global influence, with its nuclear program seen as a critical component of its geopolitical strategy. This enduring obsession with nuclear deterrence, as highlighted by Ben Taleblu, has roots in the 1980s conflict with Iraq and continues to shape Iran’s foreign policy and security strategy.