Former President Donald Trump asserted that the Iranian regime is attempting to reconstruct its nuclear weapons program at a site “protected by granite.” This claim follows his order for Operation Epic Fury, which was initiated after U.S. forces targeted three Iranian nuclear facilities last summer. During a press conference on March 11, 2024, at a conference for House Republican lawmakers in Doral, Florida, Trump detailed his concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Trump stated that despite the destruction of the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan facilities in June 2023, Iran was starting work at a different location that he described as “a different kind of site.” He noted, “They couldn’t go back to where they were, the three sites that we obliterated, but they were starting work at another site, a different site, a different kind of site, and that was protected by granite.”
The former president emphasized the depth of the new site, suggesting that it was not only shielded by granite but also fortified to a greater extent. He remarked, “Granite is pretty good, but they wanted it protected by a lot deeper.” Trump added that while Iran was working on this facility, they were also rapidly developing conventional ballistic missiles.
The Fordow Uranium Enrichment Plant, which was previously fortified beneath a mountain, became a focal point during Trump’s military strategy. He confirmed that the U.S. had utilized the GBU-57A/B MOP “bunker buster” bombs against it, marking the first combat deployment of these weapons.
In his comments, Trump also mentioned the broader implications of Operation Epic Fury on global markets. He indicated that the operation has created significant pressure on the world’s crude oil market, which in turn has affected gas prices. Following his remarks, the stock market saw a positive response.
Trump characterized Operation Epic Fury as “very complete, pretty much,” while asserting that it was just the beginning of U.S. actions regarding Iran. He expressed hope that the ongoing conflict could conclude soon but refrained from providing specific details on future military engagements.
During the press conference, Trump faced questions about various aspects of the operation, including a recent strike against a school in southern Iran. He remarked on the involvement of Vice President Vance, suggesting that Vance was supportive of the actions taken.
The international community continues to monitor developments closely as tensions escalate. Trump’s statements underscore the serious nature of U.S.-Iran relations and the potential ramifications for both regional stability and global markets.
