Vienna: In the wake of recent US attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities, Iran is likely to resume producing enriched uranium 'in a matter of months,' according to the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Rafael Grossi, the IAEA chief, indicated that Iran could quickly restart its uranium enrichment activities, with a few cascades of centrifuges potentially operational soon, as reported in an interview with CBS News.

According to Anadolu Agency, Grossi explained that while the US attacks caused significant damage to Iran's nuclear infrastructure, they did not completely destroy it. He noted Iran's industrial and technological capabilities remain intact, making it possible for the country to resume its enrichment program swiftly if it chooses to do so.

On June 22, the United States carried out a series of attacks on Iran's nuclear sites, including dropping bunker-buster bombs on the Fordo nuclear facility and launching cruise missiles at Natanz and Isfahan. These actions were part of a broader campaign targeting Iran's nuclear capabilities. Despite these efforts, the Trump administration faced criticism over reports that the nuclear program was only set back by a few months, rather than being entirely dismantled.

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, confirmed that the US and Israeli bombings inflicted 'excessive and serious' damage on Iranian nuclear sites. Despite this, Grossi highlighted that Iran's nuclear knowledge and industrial capacity remain, suggesting that the country could quickly rebuild its program.

The IAEA has also discovered unexplained traces of uranium at undeclared sites in Iran, raising questions about their origin and location. Grossi emphasized the need for Iran to allow inspectors back into the country to ensure transparency and clarify the status of its uranium stockpile.

In response to the situation, Araghchi announced that Iran would bar Grossi from entering the country, a decision condemned by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The recent escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel saw a 12-day conflict beginning on June 13, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The conflict ended with a US-brokered ceasefire on June 24, though the potential for further escalation remains.