US Vice President JD Vance says Washington destroyed Iran's nuclear programme

Washington officials announced on Tuesday that the United States believes its sustained pressure has effectively “destroyed” Iran’s nuclear program and significantly weakened the country’s conventional military capabilities. Vice President JD Vance, speaking at a press briefing in Washington, cited a series of diplomatic, economic and covert measures—including expanded sanctions, the removal of key nuclear material, and targeted cyber operations—as the basis for the assessment. He added that the combined effort has halted Tehran’s ability to produce weapons‑grade uranium and has curtailed the operational readiness of Iran’s air force, navy and missile forces.

The statement follows a year‑long campaign that intensified after the United Nations failed to reach a new nuclear agreement with Tehran. U.S. officials have reported the seizure of several clandestine enrichment sites, the disruption of ballistic‑missile supply chains, and the degradation of Iran’s command‑and‑control infrastructure through cyber‑intrusion tools. Iranian authorities, however, have denied the allegations, insisting that their nuclear facilities remain operational and that their armed forces retain full capability. International observers note that while the U.S. claims represent a significant rhetorical shift, verification of the program’s status remains limited to intelligence assessments not publicly disclosed.

Analysts say the Vice President’s remarks underscore a broader U.S. strategy aimed at compelling Iran to return to negotiations under stricter terms. The declaration may influence upcoming diplomatic talks in Europe and shape the regional security calculus, as neighboring states monitor the evolving balance of power in the Middle East.