Trump weighs risky commando raid to snatch Iran uranium

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump is weighing a potential military operation aimed at securing enriched uranium believed to be located at nuclear sites inside Iran, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing US officials familiar with internal discussions.

The material, estimated at roughly 1,000 pounds, is believed to remain at facilities previously targeted during US-led strikes in 2025.

Officials said no final decision has been made. The option under consideration would involve deploying US special operations forces to locate and extract the material from damaged or underground facilities.

The discussions come as the administration continues to pursue its stated objective of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons capability.

In remarks on Sunday, Trump warned Iran to comply with US demands, referencing the need to secure nuclear material as part of broader conditions tied to the conflict.

Risks of a protracted ground mission

Military analysts and former officials say such an operation would involve significant logistical and security challenges.

Special operations units would likely be required to enter contested areas, secure nuclear sites, and maintain control of the perimeter while technical teams locate and handle the material.

Experts note that enriched uranium is typically stored in reinforced containers or underground facilities, which could require excavation.

The process of identifying, securing, and transporting the material may take several days, depending on site conditions and resistance on the ground.

Retired US Central Command chief Gen. Joseph Votel has indicated in past assessments that operations of this nature are complex and could extend timelines beyond initial expectations.

Officials have also pointed to the need for specialized transport equipment to safely move radioactive material out of the region.

Diplomacy through regional intermediaries

Alongside military planning, diplomatic efforts are ongoing. US officials have continued to communicate with Iran through intermediaries, including representatives from Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt.

These channels are being used to explore the possibility of a negotiated transfer or surrender of nuclear material.

According to officials, the administration has indicated that a diplomatic resolution remains the preferred outcome. However, contingency plans are being developed in case negotiations do not produce results.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has previously stated that the US is prepared for a range of outcomes, including both diplomatic and military options.

Pentagon prepares for maximum optionality

The Pentagon is continuing to expand its operational readiness in the region.

Additional troop deployments are under consideration, including the possible positioning of ground forces to support a range of scenarios.

US military assets already in place include Marine expeditionary units and airborne forces capable of rapid deployment.

These units could be tasked with securing strategic locations or supporting specialized missions if directed.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration is focused on ensuring that the President has multiple options available as the situation evolves.

Officials have not provided a timeline for any potential operation.

Planning remains ongoing as the administration weighs military risks, diplomatic developments, and broader strategic objectives in the region.