Israel’s Strategy Against Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions Faces a Crucial Test
The ongoing Israeli campaign against Iran’s nuclear program hinges on a pivotal objective: the Fordow enrichment facility. This installation, located deep underground in Iran, represents a significant challenge for Israeli military operations. Former U.S. Central Command leader, retired Marine Gen. Kenneth “Frank” McKenzie, emphasized the importance of Fordow in a recent discussion at the Middle East Institute.
Gen. McKenzie stated, “I take it at face value when the Israelis say if Fordow is untouched when they’re finished, they would regard it as a failure” of Operation Rising Lion. This operation, which launched last Friday, has already targeted Iran’s air defenses, military sites, and key leaders.
Ken Pollack, a former CIA and National Security Council official, moderated the panel and relayed insights from Israeli officials. He noted, “If this ends with Fordow still functioning, we have not achieved our objectives.”
Despite Fordow’s significance, it remains largely intact, according to Gen. McKenzie. “I’m certain they’re gonna get round to Fordow,” he mentioned, highlighting the complexity of striking a facility shielded by reinforced concrete half a mile underground.
The United States Air Force possesses the GBU-57A/B MOP, a Massive Ordnance Penetrator, which could potentially breach Fordow’s defenses. This 30,000-pound “bunker buster” can reach depths of 200 feet before detonating. However, Gen. McKenzie clarified that its use would likely be reserved for situations where Iran threatens U.S. assets or personnel.
The delivery of the MOP relies on the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, a capability unique to the U.S. military. “It is a uniquely American capability we’ve trained with over a number of years,” McKenzie noted.
While direct assault on Fordow poses challenges, McKenzie hinted at alternative strategies, though details remained sparse. He referred to potential “heroic measures” to address the facility.
Meanwhile, Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, conveyed confidence in Israel’s independent plans for Fordow. Speaking on ABC-TV’s “This Week,” he stated, “We have a number of contingencies … which will enable us to deal with Fordow. Not everything is a matter of, you know, taking to the skies and bombing from afar.”
