Fact Check: "Trump's military advisers confirm bunker buster capabilities are not an issue."
What We Know
The claim that "Trump's military advisers confirm bunker buster capabilities are not an issue" lacks substantiation from credible sources. In recent discussions surrounding military options against Iran, particularly regarding its fortified nuclear facility at Fordow, experts and military officials have indicated that the U.S. possesses the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a 30,000-pound bomb designed to penetrate deep underground structures. This bomb is specifically noted for its capability to target facilities like Fordow, which is heavily fortified and buried deep within a mountain (NPR, NBC News).
Military experts have expressed that while the GBU-57 MOP could cause significant damage to such facilities, the effectiveness of a single strike is uncertain. It may require multiple strikes to ensure adequate penetration and destruction of the target, which raises operational risks (NPR, NBC News).
Analysis
The assertion that military advisers have confirmed bunker buster capabilities are "not an issue" is misleading. While it is true that the U.S. has the technological capability to deploy bunker buster bombs, the discussions among military and political leaders indicate a recognition of the complexities and risks involved in using such weapons against Iran.
For instance, experts have pointed out that the GBU-57 MOP is not a guaranteed solution to neutralizing Iran's nuclear ambitions. Ali Vaez, director of the International Crisis Group's Iran Project, noted that even a successful attack would likely only delay Iran's nuclear program by a year or two, rather than eliminate it (NPR). Furthermore, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised concerns about the potential for civilian casualties and environmental damage resulting from strikes on nuclear facilities (NPR).
The sources cited in this analysis are reputable, including NPR and NBC News, which provide detailed insights from military experts and officials. However, the claim itself appears to be a simplification of a much more complex issue, as it overlooks the nuanced discussions regarding the effectiveness and implications of using bunker buster bombs.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that "Trump's military advisers confirm bunker buster capabilities are not an issue" is misleading. While the U.S. does possess bunker buster technology, military experts and officials acknowledge the significant challenges and risks associated with its use against fortified targets like Iran's nuclear facilities. The assertion fails to capture the complexities of military strategy and the ongoing debates among advisers regarding the effectiveness of such operations.
Sources
- The U.S. could use 'bunker buster' bombs in Iran. Here’s what to know about them. NPR
- B-2 stealth bombers and 30000-pound bunker busters. NBC News
- Israel has pushed the US to use its 'bunker buster' bomb on Iran. Yahoo News
- Trump reportedly considering 'Bunker Busters' to hit Iranian facilities. YouTube
- Israel-Iran conflict, Trump weighs US options on sixth day. CNN
- Trump speaks with Netanyahu and advisers as he weighs military options. Times of Israel
- Trump supporters divided over use of 'bunker buster' in Iran. WATE
- Does Donald Trump have sole power to decide if and when to strike Iran? Politifact
