Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice commended the United States and Israel for their recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, stating that it marks a significant moment for the Middle East and showcases enhanced American credibility on the global stage.
Rice appeared on “Special Report” to discuss the aftermath of the strikes, praising the American military and Israeli forces for their successful operations.
She expressed confidence that the Iranian nuclear program suffered substantial damage as a result of the strikes, making it challenging for Iran to develop a nuclear weapon in the near future.
The targeted sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, were hit by US B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles during Operation Midnight Hammer.
The B-2 bombers flew a lengthy mission from Whiteman Air Force Base to drop Massive Ordnance Penetrators on Fordow and Natanz, while cruise missiles were launched at Isfahan from a US submarine.
Despite questions about Iran’s highly enriched uranium, top Trump administration officials have emphasized the success of the operation and the significant impact on Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the operation as a resounding success, leading to a ceasefire agreement and the end of the conflict.
Rice highlighted the setback Iran’s nuclear program faced due to the strikes and criticized a leaked intelligence assessment that questioned the effectiveness of the operation.
She emphasized the importance of the US strikes in crippling Iran’s capabilities and promoting stability in the region.
While diplomatic talks are being pursued with Iran post-operation, Rice expressed skepticism about Iran’s willingness for peace, citing the regime’s history of destabilization and hostility towards Israel.
She also noted that the US strikes have bolstered American credibility on the global stage, following previous challenges faced during the withdrawal from Afghanistan.