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What did the US strikes aim to achieve?
The US strikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities with the goal of crippling Iran's ability to develop nuclear weapons. However, recent intelligence assessments indicate that these strikes may have only delayed Iran's nuclear ambitions by a few months, rather than obliterating its capabilities as claimed by US officials.
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What do intelligence assessments say about the strikes?
According to a preliminary assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), the strikes did not significantly damage Iran's core nuclear components, including centrifuges. This contradicts earlier claims from President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth, highlighting a disconnect between the administration's narrative and the intelligence community's findings.
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Why are Iran's allies remaining silent?
Iranian-backed militias, such as Hezbollah and Iraqi groups, have chosen to prioritize survival over confrontation amid the escalating conflict. Heavy military losses and domestic pressures have led these groups to refrain from engaging in the conflict, even after the US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
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What does the tentative ceasefire mean for the conflict?
The tentative ceasefire established on June 24, 2025, suggests a temporary pause in hostilities, but the underlying tensions remain. It reflects the complex dynamics at play, including the need for Iranian allies to reassess their positions and the ongoing threat posed by US military actions.
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How might the US-Iran relations evolve after these events?
The effectiveness of the US strikes and the response from Iran and its allies will likely shape future US-Iran relations. If Iran perceives the strikes as a failure to significantly hinder its nuclear program, it may continue to pursue its ambitions, leading to further tensions and potential military confrontations.