The New York Post, citing a source familiar with military planning and several experts, reported that U.S. Special Operations forces are prepared should the order be given to execute what is being described as one of the most complex operations in military history. According to the report, the objective of the operation would be the extraction and removal of enriched uranium from Iran's nuclear facilities.
The informed source stated that executing such an operation would require the deployment of thousands of ground troops. Under this scenario, raiding forces would have to enter the nuclear facilities, navigate obstacles and booby traps, utilize the capabilities of engineering and construction teams to clear access routes, and establish total security around the perimeter of these sites alongside a massive troop deployment.
According to the source, once security is established, a small unit of Special Operations forces would be tasked with transporting the enriched uranium. He described this phase of the operation as "extremely hazardous," noting that its execution would demand extensive coordination and specialized equipment.
Joseph Rogers, deputy director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), told the New York Post that he believes a military operation is the most likely path to eliminating Iran's existing nuclear material, as negotiations are unlikely to yield results in the short term.
Rogers added that, if executed, this mission could rank among the most complex operations in military history. According to him, it would be logistically overwhelming and executed in a hostile environment. He noted that while Iran’s military has been weakened, it still retains significant capability.
Citing a report by the independent outlet Highside, potential units that could be deployed for such a mission include the Silver Squadron of SEAL Team 6, the 2nd Ranger Battalion, and the U.S. Army's 21st Ordnance Company.
The report further noted that, in the event of an operation, the 21st Ordnance Company would be responsible for removing enriched uranium from the Fordow and Isfahan facilities. It claims that the Fordow facility has been largely damaged, while the Isfahan facility has sustained severe damage.
Rogers further emphasized that securing entry into these centers and removing nuclear materials would require establishing a vast security perimeter. According to him, ground forces would need to fully secure the area and clear a safe corridor for the convoy carrying the material to reach waiting aircraft.
Under this scenario, U.S. forces would also have to excavate and reopen destroyed entrances to these facilities while simultaneously defending and protecting the operation against potential attacks by Iranian military forces.
This report is based on statements from informed sources, expert assessments, and reports from the aforementioned media outlets. To date, no official from either the United States or Iran has commented on the details of this alleged scenario.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
