As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate, experts warn that U.S. President Donald Trump may offer direct military assistance to target Iran’s nuclear facilities, including the heavily fortified Fordow site. The conflict, which began with Israeli preemptive strikes on Iranian cities last week, has intensified with Tehran launching retaliatory missile attacks penetrating Israel’s Iron Dome defenses.
Escalating Tensions
Israeli officials claim their operations aim to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Tehran insists its nuclear program is peaceful. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei accused Israel of seeking to “fan the flames” of regional conflict, calling nuclear concerns a pretext for aggression.
The Fordow Challenge
Analysts highlight the Fordow facility—buried 90 meters underground—as a critical target requiring specialized U.S. munitions like bunker-buster bombs. Zaki Shalom of the Misgav Institute noted to CGTN that American B-2 bombers carrying 14-ton payloads could be decisive in neutralizing the site.
Shifting U.S. Stance
Despite earlier calls for de-escalation, Trump’s recent social media posts urging Iran’s “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER” and reports of U.S. aircraft movements to Europe signal potential policy shifts. Wei Liang of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences observed that while direct U.S. involvement remains uncertain, accelerated weapons transfers to Israel appear likely.
Regional Implications
With Israel already engaged in Gaza, experts question its capacity for prolonged conflict. Shalom predicts the war could end within weeks, emphasizing Israel’s inability to sustain attritional warfare. Global observers remain watchful as the crisis threatens to destabilize Middle Eastern security frameworks.
