JD Vance has emphasized that the United States is not in conflict with Iran but rather with its nuclear weapons program, a stance reiterated by the White House amidst escalating tensions following US strikes on Iranian nuclear installations. While Vice President Vance did not definitively confirm the complete destruction of Iran’s nuclear sites as claimed by former President Donald Trump, he expressed confidence in significantly impeding Iran’s nuclear weapon development. Contrasting reports emerged regarding the extent of damage inflicted on Iran’s Fordo enrichment plant and Natanz facility, with satellite images raising questions about the efficacy of the US strikes.

As discussions ensue on the potential impact of the strikes on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, nuclear non-proliferation analysts hold differing views on whether the military action will prompt Iran to engage in negotiations or accelerate its uranium enrichment activities towards weaponization. Some experts, such as Darya Dolzikova from the Royal United Services Institute, suggest that the US intervention may push Iran towards deeper and covert nuclear activities to evade future targeting, rather than fostering greater cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Amid uncertainties surrounding the aftermath of the US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the international community is closely monitoring the evolving dynamics and potential repercussions of the ongoing conflict on global security and diplomatic relations.