US President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington may consider striking Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility as part of efforts to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons. In an interview with Newsmax on Thursday, Trump stated that the United States is evaluating the potential of targeting the site, which is reportedly located deep underground near one of Iran’s main nuclear facilities. He remarked, “Their nuclear is buried under millions of tons of mountain. Now we’re looking at Pickaxe Mountain. We may have to go there.” Trump expressed confidence in the capability of the US military, saying, “We’ll take a shot at that one. We’ll knock it out fast.”

Rejection of Nuclear Weapons Use

During the same interview, Trump clarified that he does not see the necessity of deploying nuclear weapons in this context. He asserted that the US could achieve its objectives without resorting to nuclear options, stating, “I wouldn’t use nuclear. We don’t have to.” His comments come amidst ongoing tensions and military actions involving Iran, which began in February with US-Israeli strikes against Iranian targets. Trump emphasised the importance of preventing nuclear weapons from falling into Iranian hands, claiming that if Iran were to acquire such capabilities, they would likely use them.

Trump also addressed the issue of American ground troops, reiterating that he is not considering sending them into Iran. The focus appears to remain on aerial strikes and other military options to neutralise perceived threats from Iran’s nuclear ambitions. However, he did not specify whether he had authorised the use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), known as the “mother of all bombs,” against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites. He made it clear that the MOAB is not a nuclear weapon.

Details About Pickaxe Mountain

According to reports from Anadolu Agency, Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain is situated approximately 1.5 kilometres south of the Natanz nuclear facility. It is believed to house nuclear centrifuges that have been relocated from other sites. The mountain is primarily composed of solid granite and extends to a depth of up to 600 metres. Reports suggest that Iran has excavated more than 100 metres beneath the surface of the mountain, raising concerns about the extent of its nuclear capabilities.

There have also been unverified claims regarding the potential storage of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium at this site. Such assertions indicate that the uranium could be further enriched for possible use in nuclear weapons, intensifying international scrutiny of Iran’s nuclear programme. The strategic importance of Pickaxe Mountain in Iran’s nuclear ambitions has drawn attention from various global powers, particularly the United States and its allies.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding military options against Iran’s nuclear facilities highlights the complexities of international relations in the region. As tensions continue to escalate, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for global security and diplomatic efforts aimed at curbing nuclear proliferation. The US administration’s approach, as articulated by Trump, reflects a commitment to addressing perceived threats while navigating the challenges of military engagement and international diplomacy.

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