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Massive Special Forces Operation Planned to Seize Iranian Uranium
The Complexity of Seizing Iranian Nuclear Material
Experts have indicated that an operation to seize Iran's enriched uranium stockpile would necessitate the largest special forces operation in history. According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), such a mission would involve thousands of troops, the construction of airfields, and complex ground missions deep within hostile territory. Analysts and experts believe the reality of such a mission is far more daunting than it appears.
Iran reportedly possessed 440 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium and almost 200 kilograms of 20% enriched uranium when its nuclear sites were struck last June. Notably, 90% enriched uranium is needed to build nuclear weapons. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Chief Rafael Grossi recently stated that nearly half of the 60% enriched uranium was located at the Isfahan nuclear site inside a tunnel complex. The US has reported that there is a very narrow access point to get this material.
Operational Challenges and Strategic Responses
The WSJ reported that the operation would require combat troops to secure the perimeters, while engineers would have to dig through debris and check for mines to retrieve the uranium available. An airfield would also need to be built from scratch to bring in equipment and transport the uranium out of the country. Former NATO commander James Stavridis told the WSJ that, given the conditions and scenario, it would take the largest special operations forces in history to seize all the uranium Iran possesses.
Simultaneously, drone and missile attacks could continue, requiring forces to fend them off. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi told CBS News that the regime is not working to recover anything right now after the nuclear facilities were attacked, adding that there would be no negotiations if the attacks continued. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated that they are not focused on recovering the uranium at the moment, but rather on 'knocking the hell out of their missiles and their drones.' The US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28th, following failed negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in the strikes, escalating the conflict.
*Source: YouTube: WION (2026-03-18)*
