Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Monday that an Israeli airstrike in late October targeted a component of Iran’s nuclear program. The strikes also damaged Iran’s missile production and defense capabilities, though Netanyahu acknowledged they did not entirely block Tehran’s path to a nuclear weapon.
The Israeli Defense Forces conducted three waves of strikes on October 26, hitting military and nuclear-related sites in Iran. While Netanyahu did not specify which part of Iran’s nuclear program was targeted, Israeli security officials confirmed that military infrastructure was also affected.
The attack came weeks after Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. Iran’s nuclear activities remain a major concern, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reporting that Iran has enriched uranium to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels.
The strikes are part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions following the collapse of the 2018 Iran nuclear deal. International efforts to revive the agreement have so far failed, leaving Iran’s program largely unchecked.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has urged restraint, warning against targeting nuclear facilities. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed willingness to negotiate but rejected talks conducted under pressure, emphasizing Iran’s national interests.
