US and Israel ready plan for possible third war with Iran, targeting underground sites

US President Donald Trump and Israeli military leaders have discussed a contingency plan for a third conflict with Iran that would aim to achieve air supremacy and strike deep underground facilities. The plan envisions a short, intensive campaign, with the United States concentrating on the southern sector of Iran and Israel targeting western and Tehran areas.

According to foreign sources, the Israeli Air Force has conducted rehearsal flights over Syria and Iraq, and Israeli fighters have previously used F-35, F-15 and F-16 aircraft to attack Iranian targets. In February, more than 200 Israeli jets participated in a first wave of strikes.

A key focus of the strategy is the Pickaxe Mountain site, which analysts describe as a potential location for covert nuclear weapon development. The facility is believed to be deeper than the Fordow plant that was bombed with US Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bombs in 2023. US officials have expressed uncertainty about whether existing bunker-buster munitions can fully destroy the site, suggesting that creating cave-ins around ventilation shafts and tunnel entrances may be the most feasible approach.

The Institute for Science and International Security released a report identifying two ventilation shafts and the primary tunnel entrances as likely weak points for targeting. The think-tank notes that the complex is extensive and would likely require multiple strikes to disrupt operations.

Iran has repeatedly described the Pickaxe Mountain facility as a strategic asset and has warned of retaliation if it is attacked. In previous engagements, Iranian forces have adapted their missile deployment, dispersing launch sites and conducting frequent, smaller barrages that have caused regional disruptions.

While Trump has advocated for a swift, "clean" three-day operation, some Israeli officials, including former defense minister Yoav Gallant, have argued that a ground assault might be necessary to neutralize deeply buried nuclear material. The feasibility and duration of any future operation remain subjects of debate within both governments.