Washington: US President Donald Trump faces a big choice. Should he extend talks with Iran or resume attacks? This decision may come soon after the midterm elections on November 3. These elections happen halfway through a president’s term, when voters choose lawmakers.
Netanyahu Wants Action
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing Trump to strike Iran right after the elections. Axios reports that the two leaders spoke by phone on Saturday. An Israeli source described the call as “tough,” while a US source called it “direct.”
Netanyahu has challenges at home. His party won 53 of the 120 seats in Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, but he needs 61 to form a government. Some US media speculate that a new war could unite rival parties and help him keep power. These reports are opinions and not confirmed.
Trump Keeps Both Doors Open
Trump claims talks with Iran are “going fine” and he is “not in much of a hurry.” However, he also mentioned that the US must “take care” of one or two Iranian nuclear sites. Axios reports his team is trying to restart talks while preparing for possible conflict after the elections.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Trump has not made a final choice and prefers a peaceful outcome.
What Is Pickaxe Mountain?
Trump often mentions Pickaxe Mountain, located about 220 kilometers south of Tehran, near Iran’s Natanz nuclear site. It is believed to have tunnels deep inside. Work started in 2020, and the main tunnels are thought to be over 100 meters underground, with four entrances.
The Institute for Science and International Security analyzed satellite images in October. They stated the site does not seem active now but noted that valuable equipment may have been moved inside.
In July, Trump said, “We’re going to take out Pickaxe Mountain.” Experts say that would be challenging. The largest non-nuclear bunker-buster bomb the US has weighs 14 tonnes, but the mountain is very deep. One suggestion is to target the tunnel entrances, power lines, and air vents. Even then, the damage might only close the site temporarily. Sending troops inside would be risky.
A Warning From Tucker Carlson
Commentator Tucker Carlson, once a strong Trump supporter, suggested the US might consider using a nuclear weapon on the site. He provided no evidence. The expert report did not indicate a nuclear weapon would be needed.
Talks Are Still Going
Vice President JD Vance sent a letter to Mohsen Rezaei, a top Iranian security official. Rezaei has read it but has not replied yet.
Mediators from Qatar also met Iranian officials for a third day on Sunday, November 1. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated there is no final deal yet. He mentioned that one idea could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key sea route, within two days if the US meets Iran’s conditions.
What Happens Next?
The days after November 3 could be crucial. Trump can choose talks, strikes, or both.
