Call for Investigation into US Intelligence Leaks on Iran Strikes

Middle Eastern envoy Steve Witkoff is urging an inquiry regarding a leaked preliminary US intelligence report. This report suggests that recent strikes authorized by President Donald Trump did not achieve their objective of destroying three key nuclear sites in Iran.

According to CNN sources familiar with the assessment, the consensus within the Defense Intelligence Agency is that the operations targeting Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan fell short of their goals, failing to eliminate critical components of Iran’s nuclear program, including its stockpiles of highly enriched uranium.

This reflects a departure from claims made by the Trump administration that the strikes had significantly hampered Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Some reports mentioned that the impacts might only have delayed Iran’s advancements rather than hindering them completely.

Witkoff expressed his frustration during an appearance on “Ingraham’s Angle,” stating, “Leaking such information is outrageous, and it should be investigated. It’s essential that those responsible be held accountable, as these leaks could jeopardize future efforts.”

The US conducted strikes on the nuclear facilities late Saturday, employing Operation Midnight Hammer, deploying over a dozen GBU-57 bombs at Fordow and Natanz. Additionally, more than 20 Tomahawk missiles were launched at Isfahan from American submarines.

General Dan Kane, co-chair of the assessment, indicated that the early evaluations of the damage at all three sites suggest significant destruction. While he remarked that a conclusive assessment would take time, he conveyed confidence in the effectiveness of the strikes.

He stated, “From what I’ve seen, our bombing campaign effectively dismantled Iran’s capability to produce nuclear weapons. Each bomb struck its intended target precisely.” However, he also noted that the true extent of the destruction might be concealed beneath rubble.

Trump emphasized that the US aims to “eliminate” Iran’s nuclear program following the strikes. This mission involved over 125 aircraft, including B-2 stealth bombers and numerous refueling tankers.

Witkoff reiterated that the Isfahan enrichment facility has been “completely destroyed,” while also acknowledging that the Natanz underground reactor suffered grave damage.

In a follow-up comment, he confirmed that another bomb was dropped later, indicating that the facility had been severely compromised. He pointed out that Fordow, being the last operational reactor of its kind, was critically impacted by the strikes, which he described as a clear violation of international norms.

Lawmakers are scheduled to receive a classified briefing regarding the US strikes on Thursday.