High-risk US plan to extract Iran’s uranium under review by Trump; Netanyahu claims war turning point

Donald Trump is considering a high-risk military operation to extract nearly 1,000 pounds of uranium from Iran, according to US officials cited by The Wall Street Journal.

The proposed mission, described as complex and hazardous, could require American forces to operate inside Iranian territory for several days or longer. Officials said no final decision has been taken, with the president weighing the potential risks to US troops.

Strategic Aim to Block Nuclear Capability

Despite the dangers, Trump is said to remain open to the idea, viewing it as a potential way to achieve his central objective of preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.


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The operation would reportedly focus on securing or removing Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, considered a critical component in any nuclear weapons programme.

Netanyahu Signals Progress in Joint Campaign

Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that the ongoing US–Israel military campaign against Iran is “beyond the halfway point”.

In an interview with Newsmax, Netanyahu expressed confidence in the progress made so far, stating that joint forces have significantly degraded Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure.

“We’re beyond the halfway point in terms of mission success,” he said, pointing to strikes on missile systems, weapons factories, and personnel linked to Iran’s nuclear programme.

Focus Shifts to Uranium Stockpile

Netanyahu indicated that the current phase of operations is centred on Iran’s enriched uranium reserves, describing it as essential to preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability.

“They are pursuing nuclear weapons and the means to deliver them,” he said, adding that efforts are now focused on ensuring the material is secured or removed, potentially under international oversight.

Regional Impact and Ongoing Uncertainty

While no timeline has been given for the conclusion of the campaign, Netanyahu suggested momentum remains with the US–Israel alliance.

“Iran is coming out weaker; we’re coming out stronger,” he said, signalling confidence in continued progress.

The situation remains fluid, with any decision by Washington to proceed with a ground operation likely to carry significant geopolitical and military implications for the region.

Inputs from agencies