New Jersey, ( The COW News Digital )U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Israel does not possess the military capability to completely eliminate Iran’s nuclear program, especially its deeply buried underground facilities. Speaking to media in New Jersey amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Trump made a series of pointed remarks about the limits of Israeli military power and the broader regional conflict.
According to The Times of Israel, President Trump remarked that although Israel may have the ability to strike certain components of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, it lacks the firepower or depth-penetration technology needed to dismantle key facilities, such as the highly fortified Fordow nuclear site. “They might be able to damage a small part, but they can’t go deep enough. They don’t have that capability,” Trump said.
The statement has sparked wide debate among defense analysts, especially as the world watches closely to see whether the United States will join Israel in any military action against Iran.
Trump emphasized his preference for peace but noted that “sometimes maintaining peace requires strength.” He reiterated that sending U.S. ground troops into Iran would be the absolute last resort, describing it as “the very last thing anyone would want.” Nonetheless, he acknowledged that military readiness remains a part of the equation if diplomacy fails.
When asked whether he would make a decision about joining Israel in a military conflict within two weeks, Trump responded affirmatively. “I’m giving Iran some time. I think it’ll take at most two weeks, no more,” he said, suggesting a tight window for diplomatic maneuvering.
Trump’s remarks shine a spotlight on Israel’s known military limitations in dealing with hardened nuclear sites. Fordow, located deep beneath a mountain near the city of Qom, is considered one of Iran’s most secure facilities. Experts believe that only high-yield, bunker-buster munitions—most of which are in U.S. possession—could successfully target it.
While Israel is believed to have advanced airpower and intelligence capabilities, it lacks the specialized weaponry required for deep-penetration strikes without U.S. support. This adds complexity to any unilateral action by Israel against Iran’s nuclear program.
Despite his tough talk, Trump concluded his remarks with hope that such extreme measures might not be necessary. “Maybe it won’t be needed,” he said. The Biden administration, prior to Trump’s return to office, had also advocated a diplomatic approach, though it struggled to revive the 2015 nuclear deal.
Trump’s comments come at a critical juncture, as Iran continues to face international scrutiny over its nuclear ambitions and as Israel signals readiness to take preemptive action. Meanwhile, global powers, including European nations, are urging restraint and dialogue.
The coming weeks may prove decisive, not only for U.S.-Iran relations but for the fragile balance of power across the Middle East.
