Trump considers seizing Iran’s uranium, oil facilities in new military options: Report

The administration of Donald Trump is reportedly evaluating a range of military strategies involving Iran, including high-risk ground operations targeting nuclear assets and key oil infrastructure, according to multiple media reports.

US Considers Ground Operations Inside Iran

Sources cited by NBC and Reuters indicate that the U.S. is exploring limited ground deployments—not large-scale invasions like Iraq or Afghanistan—to achieve specific strategic objectives. These could involve sending hundreds or thousands of specialized troops for short-duration missions.

Among the options under discussion is deploying forces to Iranian ports or small islands in the Persian Gulf to secure maritime routes and restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint.

The move comes as tensions escalate in the ongoing 2026 Iran conflict, which has already disrupted global energy supply chains and pushed oil prices higher.

Uranium Seizure Plan Under Review

As per NBC Network, one of the most sensitive proposals involves a special operation to recover Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Reports suggest that U.S. officials are concerned about the potential weaponization of this material and are evaluating whether targeted ground missions could secure it.

Iran is believed to possess hundreds of kilograms of enriched uranium—enough for multiple nuclear weapons—making this a key strategic concern.

Oil Facilities Could Become Military Targets

Another option under consideration is the seizure of Iranian oil infrastructure, including major export hubs like Kharg Island. The goal would be to cut off a crucial revenue stream for Tehran and force concessions.

Kharg Island alone accounts for a significant portion of Iran’s oil exports, making it a high-value strategic target.

There have already been U.S. airstrikes on military assets in the region, although oil facilities have so far been spared.

Risks of Ground Deployment Remain High

Military experts warn that any deployment of U.S. troops inside Iran would carry substantial risks, including casualties and escalation into a broader regional conflict.

Even limited operations could trigger retaliation from Iran or its regional allies, complicating an already volatile situation.

Public opinion in the U.S. also appears cautious. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that a majority of Americans oppose sending ground troops into Iran, despite expectations that such a move could happen.

Trump’s Public Position vs Private Deliberations

Despite reports of internal discussions, Trump has publicly denied plans to deploy troops, stating that he is “not putting troops anywhere,” while also emphasizing that military strategy would not be disclosed openly.

The White House has maintained that all options remain on the table but declined to comment on specific operational plans.