US Intelligence Still Sees Iran About a Year from Nuclear Weapon

US intelligence agencies have reportedly not changed their assessment of Iran’s ability to develop a nuclear weapon, even after months of conflict. According to Reuters, estimates suggest that Tehran would need about a year to build a bomb if it decided to do so, broadly in line with assessments made last summer.

The unchanged timeframe comes despite attacks by the United States and Israel since late February. Israel has also struck some nuclear facilities, while US operations have focused more on Iran’s defense industry and military capabilities.

The key factor remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) cannot verify the whereabouts of about 440 kg of uranium enriched to 60%. The stockpile is estimated to be enough for 10 bombs after further enrichment.

Analysts say Iran’s nuclear stockpiles are kept in underground facilities that US munitions cannot penetrate. However, Tehran may face difficulties using them after Israel killed several leading Iranian nuclear scientists.

The United States says the aim of the war is to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Iran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear arms.

(reuters, bak)