'It's going to take weeks, if not months' to know damage to Iran's nuclear program: Analyst

Nuclear Program Status - The full extent of damage to Iran's nuclear program from recent strikes remains uncertain, requiring weeks or months for accurate assessment [3][5] - The head of the UN nuclear watchdog suggests Iran could produce enriched uranium within months despite the damage [1] - Iran's leader's claim that the strikes achieved nothing significant is considered an exaggeration [4] - There are concerns that Iran may suspend cooperation with the IAEA, hindering future inspections and intelligence gathering [5][10][11] - Criticism exists within Iran that the IAEA provided blueprints for the strikes, potentially complicating future cooperation [12] - Most of Iran's nuclear sites began as clandestine operations before being discovered and declared to the IAEA [14] Diplomatic and Retaliatory Considerations - A narrow path to diplomacy exists, with the US potentially using the threat of additional strikes as leverage [7] - Iran is in a difficult position and may have no choice but to come to the table for diplomacy [8] - The US considers Iran's enrichment of uranium a red line [9] - Iranian retaliation is a concern, potentially targeting American and allied installations through proxies [6] - Increased hostilities are possible in the coming months and years if Iran pulls out of the non-proliferation treaty or views the IAEA as problematic [14]