Tucker Carlson recently claimed that former President Donald Trump was on the verge of ordering a nuclear strike against Iran, a statement that has been met with skepticism from military and Iran experts. However, these experts acknowledged that the authority to initiate such an attack rests solely with the president.
While dismissing Carlson's specific assertion as unfounded, analysts pointed out that a sitting U.S. president possesses the unilateral authority to order a nuclear strike without consulting defense secretaries or other advisors. This power is often referred to as the nuclear football, a briefcase containing emergency communication tools and nuclear-war-related options.
The B61-11, an American nuclear bomb designed to penetrate underground before detonation, is one weapon that could be employed in such a scenario. The Pentagon maintains assets, including B-2 Spirit bombers and various fighter jets, on standby around Iran that could deliver such weapons. The U.S. has previously identified potential targets within Iran, such as the Pickaxe Mountain facility, which experts suggest could be a site for a strike.
Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, despite international scrutiny. Iranian technicians have been observed handling radioactive uranium, a key component in nuclear activities, leading to the country's status as an international pariah.
Carlson, a former Fox News host, has been a vocal critic of U.S. foreign policy and previously supported Trump.
The discussion highlights the significant power vested in the U.S. presidency regarding nuclear weapons and the potential for rapid, unilateral decision-making in matters of national security.