Trump’s remarks follow reports by U.S. media outlets, including CNN, that a leaked Pentagon intelligence assessment suggests the June 23 airstrikes caused only moderate damage to Iran’s underground nuclear infrastructure—despite the deployment of so-called “bunker buster” bombs.
The Defense Intelligence Agency prepared the report in question roughly 24 hours after the attack. It was shared with lawmakers via the secure Capitol Network (CAPNET), but was allegedly leaked shortly after dissemination.
White House officials told Axios that the leak likely originated in Congress and criticized the release of what was labeled a “low confidence” assessment. Sources say the administration is now considering curbing the flow of sensitive intelligence to the legislative branch to prevent future disclosures.
U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard condemned the leaks, accusing certain media outlets of publishing unauthorized information to undermine the administration. Trump labeled such reporting “fake news” and reiterated that the mission was a success.
The classified after-action briefing, delayed earlier in the week, was eventually held Thursday. It was led by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The discussion revealed deep partisan divisions.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham supported the administration’s characterization of the strike, calling it an “obliteration.” By contrast, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy claimed Trump was “misleading the public.”
The leak and the subsequent media reports have prompted concerns about internal divisions, the security of classified intelligence, and the credibility of U.S. military actions. Iran has yet to formally respond militarily to the June strikes, though it maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful.
Moscow has weighed in as well, accusing Washington and Tel Aviv of inflicting severe harm on the credibility of the International Atomic Energy Agency by bypassing diplomatic protocols and launching unilateral military action.