Despite contradictory intelligence reports indicating limited long-term effects, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior military officials have vehemently defended the recent raids on Iranian nuclear sites, calling the operation “devastatingly effective.” In light of leaked assessments suggesting that Iran’s nuclear programme may return in a matter of months, the Pentagon has taken a tough stand.
Hegseth blasted the media for what he described as “breathless reporting” over an initial Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) leak at a heated news briefing. He said, “This was one of the most strategically significant and technically sophisticated missions in recent history.” “We will not allow leaks motivated by agendas to minimise our achievements.”
The strikes—codenamed Operation Midnight Hammer—targeted major Iranian nuclear sites including Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz. The employment of B-2 stealth bombers fitted with 30,000-pound bunker busters to destroy Iran’s underground enrichment capabilities was confirmed by Pentagon officials.
General Dan Caine, speaking alongside Hegseth, detailed how the operation penetrated deep fortifications and involved decoy aircraft and advanced electronic warfare tactics. However, he admitted there is no conclusive evidence yet whether Iran moved uranium stockpiles in advance.
According to intelligence officials, Iran’s nuclear infrastructure might recover in “a matter of months,” despite reports of extensive damage. Hegseth rejected these assertions as unfounded and premature.
He said, “We acted with strength and precision.” “It is important that Iran and the rest of the world are aware of their red lines at this point.”
The argument highlights the escalating conflicts between intelligence communities and military leadership on the definition of success in contemporary warfare, particularly in unstable areas such as the Middle East.
