US intelligence has concluded that Iran has not rebuilt its nuclear enrichment capacities destroyed in the June 2025 US-Israeli strike. The assessment, shared by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in written testimony, contradicts former President Donald Trump’s justification for the ongoing war with Iran. The finding suggests that Tehran poses no imminent nuclear threat, despite previous claims of accelerated weapons development.
Gabbard stated that “as a result of Operation Midnight Hammer, Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme was obliterated,” with no efforts since then to rebuild capabilities. Her written testimony was submitted to the Senate intelligence committee as part of the annual threat assessment, although she did not repeat the conclusion during oral remarks.
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When pressed by a Democratic senator, Gabbard explained she lacked time to read the full testimony aloud at the hearing. She did not dispute the intelligence assessment, emphasizing that Iran’s nuclear sites remain destroyed. The finding challenges narratives suggesting Tehran was close to producing a nuclear weapon despite ongoing negotiations on a nuclear deal.
Gabbard noted that while Iran’s leadership and military capabilities have suffered heavy blows, including the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the regime remains largely intact. She added that if Iran survives the attacks, it will likely embark on a long-term effort to rebuild its military, missile, and drone forces.
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The assessment raises questions about prior war justifications and the perceived urgency of military operations. It underscores the difference between political claims and intelligence findings, highlighting the ongoing debate over US policy toward Iran’s nuclear and military programs.