Israeli intelligence sources revealed that Iran failed to evacuate its enriched uranium stockpiles from key nuclear facilities—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—prior to the joint US-Israel operation known as Rising Lion in June. The operation, aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear program, reportedly caught Tehran off guard, leaving valuable nuclear material vulnerable and potentially exposed.

Uranium Remains Trapped at Isfahan

Despite the success of the coordinated strikes, officials say that uranium remains at the Isfahan facility, but due to damage and post-strike conditions, Iran faces significant challenges in accessing or relocating the material. This development complicates Tehran’s efforts to recover and continue its enrichment activities in the short term.

Trump and Netanyahu Discuss Iran Strategy at Pentagon

The revelation coincides with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon, where both sides reaffirmed strategic cooperation. “The Secretary expressed appreciation for the brave U.S. soldiers who carried out the operation in Iran,” a Defense Department statement read, adding that the mission fulfilled President Trump’s “peace through strength” vision.

While publicly aligned, Trump and Netanyahu differ on their post-strike approach. Netanyahu is pushing for intensified pressure and regime change, while Trump favors renewed diplomacy to secure a permanent freeze on Iranian nuclear ambitions.

Iran’s Dilemma: Talk or Resist

Western officials note that Iran now faces two difficult options: enter talks from a weakened position or risk further military escalation. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signaled openness to foreign investment, suggesting some room for negotiations. However, Israeli leaders remain skeptical, with Netanyahu reportedly seeking a “Libya-style” disarmament model—complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

As Washington hesitates to escalate militarily, Israel appears ready to continue periodic strikes to prevent Iran from rebuilding its program. Intelligence sources indicate Tehran retains enough know-how to restart uranium enrichment if given the opportunity.