Iran’s Nuclear Facilities Damaged but Intention to Rebuild and Continue Enrichment

Iran’s nuclear sites were significantly impacted by US missile strikes last month, but the regime confirms plans to restore the facilities and persist with uranium enrichment efforts, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

During a recent interview, Araghchi stated that the extent of the damage is still under assessment, acknowledging the facilities’ destruction and noting Iran has been unable to refine nuclear fuel since the strikes on June 22. Despite this setback, he emphasized that Iran possesses the technological and scientific capacity to rebuild its nuclear infrastructure.

Iranian official speaking in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sign. — Araghchi highlighted Iran’s ability to reconstruct its nuclear sites and continue enriching uranium for peaceful purposes. Fox

He reaffirmed Iran’s stance that uranium enrichment is a national right and a matter of pride. The foreign minister dismissed the possibility of any nuclear deal with the US that would prohibit domestic enrichment, asserting that it is essential for Iran’s scientific achievements and sovereignty.

Although the sites are currently damaged, Araghchi emphasized they will be rebuilt and the nuclear program will resume. He insisted the damage does not compromise Iran’s ability to produce nuclear fuel, asserting that the necessary technology, scientists, and infrastructure remain intact.

Satellite image of the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant in Iran after a US air strike. — The foreign minister claims Iran has not been able to enrich uranium since the US strikes on three of its nuclear facilities. Satellite image ©2025 Maxar Technologies/AFP via Getty Images

Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s capacity for nuclear development is self-reliant, developed by its scientists and engineers. He added that the recent attack demonstrated that military options are ineffective against Iran’s nuclear program.

Airstrike craters at Iran's Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant. — The Iranian official vowed that the country will rebuild and resume its nuclear activities. Satellite image ©2025 Maxar Technologies/AFP via Getty Images

On the topic of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, Araghchi stated he has no detailed information on whether it was affected by the strikes. He also expressed Iran’s firm stance against restricting missile development or funding regional proxy groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, asserting these are integral to its national defense and supporting allies in their fights.

Regarding negotiations, Araghchi mentioned Iran remains open to talks but has no immediate plans for direct discussions unless conditions are mutually beneficial. He reaffirmed Iran’s refusal to disarm its missile systems or cease support for allies, reinforcing their commitment to sovereignty and strategic defense.