Former U.S. Official Reveals Reasons Behind Trump’s Two-Week Deadline for Iran
Military Readiness and Strategic Positioning
In a recent interview with Iran International, former CIA Director and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander David Petraeus disclosed the military plans behind President Donald Trump’s two-week ultimatum to Iran. According to Petraeus, the short time frame is critical for the U.S. military to position itself in the Middle East for a potential strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. He emphasized that the two-week period would allow for the deployment of a second American aircraft carrier to the region, enhancing the U.S. capability to deter Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply is transported.
Iranian Threats and Historical Context
Recent statements by Ismail Qaani, a senior commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, indicate that Iran is considering blocking the strait in response to Israeli military operations. The Strait of Hormuz has historically been a flashpoint for tensions with Iran, with threats to close it surfacing post-2018 following the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal.
Petraeus explained that the Trump administration is also using this two-week window to seek Congressional approval for military action. He stated, “This period allows for discussions, hearings, and possibly even a vote on authorizing the strike,” suggesting that if President Trump clarifies that there will be no ground invasion and sets clear objectives, congressional support for military action is likely.
Targeting the Fordow Nuclear Facility
Discussion further turned to Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, which is situated deep within a mountain in central Iran and was first disclosed to the public in 2009. Petraeus revealed that the U.S. has developed a detailed strike plan against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, including comprehensive drills with live munitions, to ensure operational success.
A key consideration, according to Petraeus, is determining how many bombs would be required to effectively destroy the Fordow facility-whether start bomb would be sufficient, or if multiple hits would be necessary. He expressed confidence in the U.S. military’s ability to accomplish the mission without relying solely on a heavy, bunker-busting bomb weighing 14 tons, asserting, “We have alternative means available, and all of this information is in the public domain.”
Warning to Iranian Leadership
Petraeus issued a stern warning to Iran’s leadership, cautioning that persisting with their nuclear ambitions and continuing uranium enrichment could lead to total destruction with no strategic gain. He projected that ongoing adherence to these policies would provoke further Israeli strikes against Iranian infrastructure, exacerbating the suffering of the Iranian populace, already beleaguered by severe economic sanctions.
He also outlined a different vision for Iran’s future, advocating for a transition from a revolutionary state to start focused on economic development, human capital investment, and the prudent exploitation of its abundant natural resources. “Iran has the potential for a bright future,” he stated, while acknowledging the complexities of regime change, citing past failures in countries like Libya, Iraq, and Yemen. Nevertheless, he believes there are pragmatic forces within the Iranian government willing to move away from nuclear aspirations and support for organizations like Hezbollah and the Houthis.
A Urgent Call for Change
In closing, Petraeus delivered a direct message to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, urging him to consider a pivot akin to actions taken by previous leaders following the Iran-Iraq War. He warned, “It’s time to take a different course or prepare for complete destruction of your security, energy infrastructure, and nuclear program.” His message was clear-while the opportunity for change exists, the window is rapidly closing