US seeks to seize enriched uranium in Iran
The Washington administration is weighing potential military steps to obtain enriched uranium identified in Iran. The possibility of an operation is increasing regional tensions.
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It has emerged that the United States is discussing military options to reach more than 400 kilograms of enriched uranium in Iran. It is stated that White House officials have held detailed discussions on this matter and that no definitive decision has been made yet. Washington is particularly concerned that the nuclear material in question is close to weapons-grade quality.
Security sources in the US indicate that risky scenarios are being prepared for such an operation, which would require military units to operate on Iranian soil for days. According to the allegations, President Trump is keeping an open mind toward various intervention options while prioritizing the safety of the soldiers; he is also keeping the pressure on the Iranian administration to "surrender the uranium" as a possibility for a diplomatic solution.
Advisors at the White House point out that the operation carries serious security threats on the ground, that Iran's nuclear facilities are well-protected, and that a long-term presence of US troops in the region could lead to new conflicts.
The fact that the possibility of an operation has frequently come to the agenda in recent weeks has led the US Department of Defense to increase its military preparations in the region. It is reported that the Pentagon is evaluating the deployment of an additional 10 thousand troops from the ground forces. It is also noted that marines and paratrooper units are included in alternative plans for rapid intervention.
Former US Central Command Commander General Joseph Votel assessed the situation, stating, "It is not an operation that can be completed easily and in a short time. Field security, clearing the debris, and transporting the radioactive material with special teams could take days."
In addition to the US, it was estimated before the air strike carried out on Iran last year by Israel that Tehran possessed more than 400 kilograms of nuclear material at 60 percent purity and approximately 200 kilograms of fissile material at 20 percent enrichment. Experts point out that this material could be brought above 90 percent in a short time, making it suitable for nuclear weapon production.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized last week that the objectives could be achieved without a ground operation. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said, "If Iran hands over the uranium voluntarily, there will be no need for military intervention; otherwise, the US option remains on the table."
While the operation allegations have put all actors in the region on alert, it is stated that diplomatic channels have not yet been completely closed and that different paths for a solution are being kept on the table.