Biden discusses possible strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites if Tehran moves toward weapons - Axios

According to Axios, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan presented President Biden with options for a potential US attack on Iran's nuclear sites. This discussion focused on the scenario in which Iran takes steps toward developing nuclear weapons by January 20. The meeting, which remained secret until recently, occurred several weeks ago.

Axios notes that a US strike on Iran’s nuclear sites would be a significant gamble for a president who has promised to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons but who also risks passing on a new conflict to his successor. Sources say Biden did not approve the strike during the meeting and has not done so since.

"Biden and his national security team discussed various options and scenarios during the meeting, which took place roughly one month ago, but the president did not make any final decision," the report states.

A US official with knowledge of the issue said that the meeting at the White House was not prompted by new intelligence and was not meant to result in a "yes" or "no" decision from the US president. Instead, it was part of a broader discussion on "prudent scenario planning" regarding how the US should respond if Iran takes steps such as enriching uranium to 90% purity by January 20.

Another source confirmed that active discussions on possible military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities are not currently taking place at the White House.

Some of Biden’s senior advisors argue that two trends, the acceleration of Iran’s nuclear program and the weakening of Iran and its allies in the war with Israel, together give Biden both the need and the opportunity to strike.

Axios adds that during Biden’s time in office, Iran’s nuclear program has advanced significantly, bringing the country to the brink of nuclear weapon capability.

Specifically, Iran has increased its uranium enrichment level to 60%, which is close to the 90% level needed to produce nuclear weapons. Iran’s advanced centrifuges could achieve this in just a few days.

At the same time, even if Iran decides to build a bomb, it would still need to develop a nuclear explosive device or warhead. Israeli intelligence believes this would take at least a year.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, December 31, the US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on several Iranian and Russian organizations. The companies are believed to be involved in meddling in US elections.

Earlier, RBC-Ukraine reported that Russia and Iran could sign a new strategic partnership agreement. This could happen just before the inauguration of newly elected US President Donald Trump.