CBS News reports that former President Trump is in the early stages of strategizing a potential military operation aimed at seizing Iran's nuclear stockpiles. Sources indicate that the timing of such an operation, should Trump endorse it, remains uncertain, but current planning involves the possibility of deploying forces from the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), a unit known for tackling complex missions concerning the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Discussions surrounding this strategy are reportedly taking place behind closed doors.

The report highlights that the Trump administration appears to be shifting its focus towards the long-term goal established at the onset of past conflicts: to ensure that Iran cannot produce nuclear weapons. Data from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) indicates that as of the summer of 2025, Iran had amassed approximately 440 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium, a significant quantity that raises alarm regarding Tehran's nuclear capabilities. Much of this enriched uranium remains hidden beneath nuclear facilities that were bombarded in a previous U.S. operation conducted last summer.

U.S. officials have not ruled out the possibility of attempting to seize Iran's highly enriched uranium, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The implications of such an operation could be profound, affecting U.S.-Iran relations and the broader geopolitical landscape, as any military action would likely escalate tensions in an already volatile region. With the dynamics surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions still precarious, this strategic consideration underscores the urgency perceived by U.S. administrations in addressing the threat posed by Tehran's nuclear developments.