IranNuclearTalks – Trump Rules Out Military Mission to Seize Uranium Stockpile
IranNuclearTalks – US President Donald Trump has disclosed that his administration examined a potential military operation aimed at recovering Iran’s enriched uranium reserves but eventually decided against pursuing the plan due to the significant risks involved. The revelation comes as diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran continues alongside renewed tensions in West Asia.
Military Proposal Considered Too Complex
Speaking about the proposal, Trump said the operation would have required an extensive deployment of American military resources inside Iranian territory. According to him, defense officials evaluated several options for securing the nuclear material, but the scale of the mission made it impractical.
He noted that executing such a plan would have demanded a major logistical effort and likely taken at least two weeks to complete. The operation would have involved moving large amounts of military equipment and personnel into Iran, making it a highly sensitive undertaking.
Pentagon Reviewed Recovery Options
Trump referred to the uranium stockpile as “nuclear dust” and stated that military planners had thoroughly studied different methods to retrieve the material. Despite rejecting the proposal, he maintained that the United States retains the capability to carry out such an operation if necessary.
According to the president, the material is currently secured and does not present an immediate concern. He also suggested that Washington would not necessarily require a formal agreement with Tehran to obtain control of the uranium if circumstances changed.
Possibility of Future Diplomatic Engagement
The US president also commented on the prospect of direct talks with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. While expressing little interest in a personal meeting at this stage, Trump acknowledged that such an encounter could become possible if broader negotiations between the two countries produce a comprehensive framework.
He indicated that any future meeting would be conducted respectfully, despite the longstanding tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Leadership Change in Iran Remains a Key Factor
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed Iran’s highest leadership position after the death of his father during a joint US-Israeli military operation. Trump remarked that previous military actions had affected several members of Khamenei’s family, yet he still expected professional engagement should diplomatic contacts occur.
The comments highlight the complex relationship between the two governments, where deep political disagreements continue to coexist with ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Technical Consultations Support Negotiations
Meanwhile, diplomatic activity appears to be intensifying behind the scenes. A report published by Axios stated that senior US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveled to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for discussions with nuclear and technical experts expected to contribute to upcoming negotiations with Iran.
The consultations are viewed as part of broader preparations for a possible agreement designed to reduce tensions and open the door to more extensive nuclear discussions.
Key Differences Continue to Delay Agreement
The White House is reportedly working toward a memorandum of understanding that could help halt current hostilities and establish a foundation for future negotiations. However, officials familiar with the talks say substantial disagreements remain unresolved.
One of the most significant disputes concerns the timeline for reducing Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. The United States is reportedly seeking completion within 60 days, while Iranian officials are pushing for a longer 90-day period.
Frozen Assets Remain a Major Obstacle
Another major point of contention involves approximately USD 24 billion in frozen Iranian assets. Sources connected to the negotiations indicate that discussions over these funds have become one of the most difficult issues facing both sides.
Although negotiators are believed to be approaching a decisive stage, officials caution that a final breakthrough is far from certain. A US official described the recent technical meetings as evidence that talks are becoming increasingly serious but emphasized that no agreement has yet been secured.
An adviser to Iran’s supreme leader recently told CNN that negotiations have encountered a significant obstacle over the frozen assets issue, adding that the next move largely depends on decisions made in Washington.