The US president says Washington prefers a diplomatic agreement with Tehran but could strike Iran’s suspected underground nuclear facility within an hour if negotiations fail.

WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — WEB DESK — November 3, 2026: US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Iran while warning that American forces could strike the country’s suspected underground nuclear facility at Pickaxe Mountain within an hour if diplomatic efforts fail.

In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Trump said Washington might have to target the site but maintained that a negotiated settlement remained possible. He said he would prefer an agreement to avoid further loss of life.

Trump warned that military action could resume if Tehran failed to reach a deal, while claiming that the United States had the capability to strike the facility whenever necessary.

The remarks underscore Washington’s continued pressure on Iran over its nuclear programme, even as both sides explore diplomatic options to end the conflict.

Pickaxe Mountain Remains a Key Concern

Pickaxe Mountain is associated with Iran’s suspected underground nuclear infrastructure. The facility has attracted attention because its reported depth and fortified construction could complicate military efforts to reach installations located beneath the mountain.

Trump has repeatedly identified the site as a potential target, arguing that further action may be necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Iran has denied that nuclear work is being conducted at the facility. Dawn+1

The president’s latest warning follows a series of military operations against Iranian targets. On Monday, US forces also carried out limited strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, with American officials describing the action as defensive.

Diplomacy Continues Amid Military Tensions

Despite the warnings, Trump said there was a strong possibility of reaching an agreement with Tehran. His comments indicate that the administration is keeping military action as an option while leaving room for negotiations.

The dispute carries broader implications for regional stability, maritime security and international energy markets, particularly because tensions around the Strait of Hormuz threaten a major route for global oil shipments.

The immediate outlook remains uncertain. No final agreement has been announced, and Trump’s statement about striking Pickaxe Mountain represents a warning of possible future military action, not confirmation that an attack on the facility has been ordered or carried out.