WASHINGTON — U.S. Vice President JD Vance has announced that Iran is no longer capable of producing a nuclear weapon following recent American airstrikes that targeted and reportedly destroyed critical components of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
“We are now in a very different place than we were just a week ago,” Vance told Fox News. “Back then, Iran was dangerously close to acquiring a nuclear weapon. Today, with the equipment we destroyed, they are no longer capable of building one.”
Vance’s remarks came shortly after President Donald Trump declared a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, signaling a potential de-escalation following nearly two weeks of direct military conflict.
“Tomorrow is truly a new day,” Vance added. “It marks the end of the 12-Day War, the end of the Iranian nuclear program, and possibly the beginning of a major breakthrough for peace in the Middle East.”
U.S. and Israeli Strikes Hit Iranian Nuclear Sites
Tensions between Iran and the U.S. escalated dramatically over the weekend, after American forces joined Israeli military operations targeting Iranian nuclear infrastructure. The joint strikes hit three sites, including the heavily fortified underground Fordow uranium enrichment facility.
In response, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at the U.S. military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Monday. No injuries or fatalities were reported.
The White House described the military action as both a strategic blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and a potential launchpad for renewed diplomatic engagement in the region.
Ceasefire Ends Most Direct Iran-Israel Confrontation in Decades
Since June 13, Israel has conducted repeated strikes inside Iranian territory, targeting military and nuclear facilities as well as civilian infrastructure. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Israel, raising fears of a broader regional war.
The ceasefire agreement, announced by President Trump on Monday, outlines a phased de-escalation. Iran is set to halt military operations first, followed by Israel 12 hours later. The conflict is expected to formally conclude within 24 hours of the truce taking effect.
While the long-term consequences remain uncertain, U.S. officials are presenting the ceasefire as a major turning point in a region long plagued by volatility.
“This is a moment that could reshape the Middle East,” said one senior White House official. “The Iranian nuclear threat has been neutralized, and the door is now open for diplomacy.”
