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Trump Alleges Iran Building New Fortified Nuclear Site
President says Iran was starting work on a new facility protected by granite to produce nuclear weapons material.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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President Donald Trump said the U.S. conflict with Iran began after intelligence determined the country was starting work on a new heavily fortified facility to produce material for nuclear weapons. Trump described the site as protected by granite and intended to replace locations previously targeted by U.S. strikes. He also accused Iran of rapidly expanding its ballistic missile program, arguing the combination of the new nuclear site and missile capabilities posed a significant threat.
Why it matters
The alleged new nuclear site and expanded missile program would mark a significant escalation in tensions between the U.S. and Iran, potentially prompting further military action or conflict. Trump's claims about Iran's nuclear ambitions could also impact ongoing diplomatic efforts and negotiations.
The details
According to Trump, the new nuclear site was designed to be "virtually impossible to prevent them from obtaining a nuclear weapon." He said the facility was protected by granite and intended to replace previous nuclear sites that had been targeted by U.S. strikes. Trump also accused Iran of rapidly expanding its ballistic missile program, arguing this posed an additional threat when combined with the new nuclear site.
- Trump made the allegations during a press conference on March 9, 2026 in Doral, Florida.
The players
Donald Trump
The former President of the United States who is alleging Iran is building a new fortified nuclear site and expanding its missile capabilities.
Iran
The country that Trump claims is starting work on a new heavily protected nuclear facility and rapidly expanding its ballistic missile program.
What they’re saying
“They were starting work at another site, a different site, different kind of a site — and that was protected by granite.”
— Donald Trump, Former U.S. President (Newsweek)
“They were trying to make it virtually impossible to prevent them from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”
— Donald Trump, Former U.S. President (Newsweek)
What’s next
The Biden administration is likely to closely monitor the situation and consider diplomatic or military options in response to Trump's allegations about Iran's nuclear and missile programs.
The takeaway
Trump's claims about a new fortified Iranian nuclear site and expanded missile capabilities could significantly escalate tensions between the U.S. and Iran, potentially leading to renewed conflict or military action if the allegations are verified.
