Trump weighs Iran uranium seizure plan amid rising tensions

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the potential mission would aim to extract nearly 1,000 pounds of uranium from key Iranian nuclear facilities. While no final decision has been made, officials indicated that military planning is underway as part of broader contingency options.

Complex operation under consideration

Officials said the uranium is believed to be stored at sensitive locations, including underground facilities in Isfahan and sites linked to Natanz. Any operation would require US forces to enter Iranian territory, secure these locations under hostile conditions, and coordinate specialised teams to locate and transport the material.

Retired General Joseph Votel described the scenario as highly demanding, warning that such a mission would not be rapid. The uranium is reportedly stored in dozens of specialised containers, requiring secure handling, ground transport and eventual airlift, a process that could take several days or longer.

Risks of escalation

Military experts caution that attempting to seize nuclear material by force could trigger significant retaliation from Iran, potentially widening the conflict. US troops would face threats from drones, missile systems and ground forces, raising concerns over casualties and prolonged engagement.

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt emphasised that preparations do not indicate a final decision, stating that the Pentagon’s role is to provide “maximum optionality” to the president.

Diplomacy remains on the table

Despite military planning, Washington continues to explore diplomatic alternatives. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US would prefer a negotiated outcome in which Iran voluntarily transfers the uranium.

Mediators including Türkiye, Pakistan and Egypt are involved in indirect contacts between Washington and Tehran, reflecting ongoing efforts to avoid direct confrontation.

Regional conflict intensifies

The proposal comes amid escalating hostilities following US and Israeli strikes on Iran since late February, which have resulted in over 1,340 deaths, including senior Iranian leadership figures such as Ali Khamenei. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and regional states hosting US assets, further destabilising the Middle East and impacting global markets and aviation routes.