Recent leaks from anonymous U.S. officials have cast doubt on the Biden administration’s claims about the effectiveness of recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran. According to The Washington Post, intercepted phone calls between Iranian leaders suggest the strikes were far less damaging than publicly stated. Four unnamed sources confirmed that Iranian officials described the attacks as “less devastating than they had expected,” contradicting the White House’s portrayal of a major strategic success.
Adding to the skepticism is a leaked Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) report dated June 24, which stated that Iran’s nuclear program had only been delayed by a few months. Although the report was labeled “low confidence,” this disclaimer was left out of much media coverage. The White House has dismissed the DIA findings and strongly criticized the leak. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said it was “shameful” and asserted that Iran cannot assess damage “under hundreds of feet of rubble,” declaring the Iranian nuclear weapons program “is over.”
The Pentagon and FBI have launched an investigation to find the source of the leaks. President Trump commented on the situation during a Fox News interview, suggesting journalists could be compelled to reveal their sources, stating, “They could find out easily.” His remarks have added to the debate around press freedom and national security during wartime.
Despite the intelligence disputes, Iran’s own statements hint at significant damage. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi admitted on state television that three nuclear facilities were seriously affected. Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization is reportedly conducting ongoing assessments to measure the full extent of the destruction, which remains unclear.
Opinions among experts remain sharply divided. Some intelligence sources like the CIA and Israeli defense forces report major damage, while others—including the DIA and intercepted communications—indicate more limited effects. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared “victory” over the U.S. and Israel, claiming the attacks achieved little. Former U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized media outlets for undermining American efforts, calling the leaks “irresponsible” and harmful to national morale.
