WhatsappWhile it is too early to fully confirm whether the US strike on Fordow worked, there are early signs enough of Fordow is still standing that something else may have to happen in order to ensure Iran’s program is completely wiped out.
Two issues remain concerning Fordow. The first is the inconclusive nature of the strike itself. True, the satellite imagery showed entry holes of the MOPs and videos of the explosions confirm something inside was hit. However, Iran knew for years that these MOPs were developed with this strike in mind and there is an unsettling notion that Iran was prepared. If so, how can the US and Israel ensure they got it all?
The IDF has confirmed it conducted an airstrike earlier today targeting the access routes leading to Iran’s underground Fordow nuclear site. According to the IDF, the operation is being carried out in order to hinder movement to and from the facility.
Some are suggesting that Israel may be forced to send in IDF special forces to ensure the nuclear material and centrifuges are completely destroyed.
The second issue is the very real possibility that Iran moved 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium from Fordow just days before. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said his team last saw the fuel a week before the strikes. Iran has made it clear that they did everything they could to protect the material. It makes sense that the Iranian regime would have moved this to a secret location. After all when enriched to weapons grade, 400 kilograms is enough for 9 atomic bombs. Prime Minister Netanyahu hinted today that they may know where it is.
These two issues is why Israel has pressed forward in pushing the Iranian regime to the brink. Today alone they succeed in bombing the IRGC headquarters in Tehran and blew open Tehran’s Evin Prison where political prisoners are held and tortured. The aim of the IDF attacks is not to force regime change but rather set the stage for it.
As long as the regime stays in power the nuclear weapons program remains a threat – especially with the 400 kilograms of enriched uranium on the loose.
