Biden discussed plans to strike Iran nuclear sites if Tehran speeds toward bomb

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan recently presented President Biden with potential options for a U.S. strike on Iran's nuclear facilities in case Iran moves toward developing a nuclear weapon before January 20, according to three sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Axios. The meeting, which occurred several weeks ago, had not been disclosed until now.

A U.S. attack on Iran’s nuclear program during the final weeks of Biden’s presidency would represent a significant risk, as it aligns with his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon but could leave a fresh conflict for his successor to manage. Biden did not approve a strike during the meeting and has not done so since, according to the sources.

During the discussion, Biden and his national security team considered various scenarios and responses but did not reach a final decision. A U.S. official familiar with the meeting clarified that it was not prompted by new intelligence or intended to produce an immediate decision. Instead, it was part of broader contingency planning for how the U.S. might respond if Iran escalates its nuclear activities, such as enriching uranium to 90% purity, before Biden’s term ends.

The same official stated that there are currently no active discussions within the White House about launching military action against Iran’s nuclear program.

Some of Biden’s top aides have argued internally that the combination of two factors—Iran's accelerated nuclear progress and its diminished regional influence due to its conflict with Israel—creates both an imperative and an opportunity for action. They believe that recent setbacks to Iran’s air defense systems and missile capabilities, along with the weakened state of its regional proxies, could improve the chances of a successful strike while reducing the likelihood of retaliation or regional escalation.

Sullivan reportedly refrained from making any direct recommendations to Biden, instead focusing on scenario planning. The White House has declined to comment on the issue.

During the meeting, Biden expressed concern about the urgency of the situation, questioning whether Iran’s actions justified a military strike just weeks before the transition to a new administration.

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