‘Fake news’: Trump rejects intelligence report suggesting US strikes didn’t destroy Iran nuclear sites
Former President Donald Trump has dismissed a recent intelligence report that questions the success of US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. He called it “fake news” and insisted the strikes were highly effective.
The report, shared with Congress earlier this week, claimed that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure remains mostly intact. It contradicts earlier public statements made by Trump’s administration, which praised the operation as a major success.
Trump responded on Truth Social, accusing intelligence officials of spreading “deep state disinformation.” He stated, “These were some of the most successful missions ever. We took bold action when it was needed. Iran knew we meant business.”
Intelligence Briefing Sparks Controversy
The classified briefing informed lawmakers that Iran likely expected the airstrikes and had moved key equipment beforehand. As a result, the most important nuclear facilities were not destroyed.
Unnamed officials said the strikes disrupted some logistics and communication systems but did not inflict lasting damage. The Pentagon has not officially commented, but defense insiders confirmed the assessment’s accuracy.
The report casts doubt on earlier claims that the US had seriously harmed Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Trump’s Hardline Approach to Iran
Trump’s presidency was marked by a tough Iran policy. In 2018, he pulled the US out of the Iran nuclear deal. That decision drew mixed reactions. Critics warned of rising tensions, while supporters believed the deal was flawed.
Trump also approved several high-profile actions. These included sanctions, cyberattacks, and the 2020 drone strike that killed General Qassem Soleimani. The airstrikes now under review took place in his final year in office. They targeted uranium sites and missile facilities.
Trump Claims Political Agenda
In his response, Trump claimed the intelligence report is politically motivated. “They want to rewrite history because they hate what we achieved,” he posted. “We did more to stop Iran than any administration ever.”
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed Trump’s claims. On Fox News, he said, “Those strikes were based on solid intel. They worked. Saying otherwise is a political lie.”
Trump allies argue the report aims to weaken his legacy ahead of the 2024 election.
Experts Urge Balanced View
Defense experts advised the public to examine both sides. Melissa Dalton, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said nuclear targets are hard to assess. “Disruption may be temporary. But real damage takes more than one hit,” she explained.
Paul Pillar, a former CIA officer, criticized Trump’s reaction. “This pattern of rejecting intelligence hurts national security. It damages public trust,” he said during a televised panel.
These experts believe the truth likely lies between the two opposing narratives.
International Impact
The disagreement also affects global diplomacy. President Biden’s administration has resumed indirect talks with Iran. The goal is to limit Iran’s nuclear progress through renewed diplomacy.
This strategy differs from Trump’s “maximum pressure” approach. Critics fear Iran may have advanced its program during the transition. If the recent report proves accurate, it could weaken Biden’s negotiating position.
European allies like France and Germany continue to push for peaceful solutions. They urge both nations to avoid escalation and return to negotiations.
Congress Demands Clarity
Lawmakers from both parties have asked for a full explanation. A bipartisan group is now calling for a closed-door hearing with the Defense Department. They want to know exactly what the airstrikes achieved.
Some members say the truth must come out, no matter how it affects politics. Others believe intelligence leaks are being used to sway public opinion.
Trump Turns to Campaign Trail
Trump continues to use the issue to energize his base. His campaign issued a statement saying, “This report is another effort by Washington elites to discredit President Trump’s strong foreign policy.”
Analysts note that Trump often focuses on national security to boost his leadership image. His supporters say the current intelligence push is timed to weaken his 2024 run.
Conclusion
The debate over the US strikes on Iran highlights a bigger struggle between political narratives and intelligence reports. As the world watches the US-Iran dynamic unfold, both military action and diplomacy remain key tools. Whether Trump’s claims or the intelligence assessment proves accurate, the stakes are high — and the truth matters more than ever.
