CIA Contradicts Pentagon After US Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites**

The CIA asserts significant damage to Iranian nuclear facilities following US strikes, while a Pentagon report suggests minimal impact, stirring controversy in Washington and beyond.**

The head of the CIA, John Ratcliffe, announced that recent US military strikes have "severely damaged" Iran's nuclear facilities, claiming they would take years to rebuild. This statement contradicts a leaked Pentagon intelligence report, which suggested that essential components of Iran's nuclear program had largely survived the attack, infuriating President Donald Trump.

Speaking at a conference in The Hague, Trump reinforced Ratcliffe's assertion, declaring the strikes as "obliteration," while he accused media outlets of distorting the truth regarding the attack's effectiveness. He indicated that his administration intends to pursue a commitment from Iran to cease its nuclear ambitions during upcoming discussions, although Tehran has not confirmed any dialogue.

The CIA's report cited new information from a historically reliable source, noting substantial damage to key Iranian nuclear sites that would hinder the country’s nuclear development for years to come. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff corroborated that there has been some level of communication between the US and Iran despite the absence of formal negotiations.

The military operation reportedly involved 125 US aircraft targeting the main Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz and Fordo. Satellite images have shown signs of destruction, with craters indicating the extent of the damage. However, the precise impact on underground operations remains uncertain.

A leaked Pentagon Defense Intelligence Agency report estimated that the effects of the strikes might only delay Iran's nuclear development by a "few months," a claim made with "low confidence." This assessment has drawn criticism, with some officials suggesting it is preliminary and subject to reevaluation.

Amidst these developments, Iranian officials acknowledged their installations were harmed but highlighted that no irreversible damage occurred. The ongoing conflict and diplomatic tensions between Israel and Iran continue to evolve, with further assessments expected regarding the long-term implications of the US strikes on Iran’s nuclear aspirations.