Trump threatens strike on Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a threat to strike Iran’s underground Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility, according to a report by Fox News. This site, near Natanz, is believed by Western and Israeli intelligence to potentially store centrifuges or enriched uranium, although its exact purpose remains unverified. The threat arises amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, which have been exacerbated by Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure and retaliatory actions. The Pickaxe Mountain facility is a heavily fortified target, reportedly buried about 100 meters underground, and has not yet been affected by previous strikes in the region. Key Takeaways Recent market activity suggests a decreased probability of the U.S. ending the Iranian blockade by July 31, as Trump’s threat indicates a potential escalation in military actions. The July 31 sub-market for the end of the blockade has seen YES pricing drop significantly from 24% to 11.5% in 24 hours, reflecting increased tensions. The August 31 sub-market remains more optimistic, with a 51.5% YES pricing, but this too has seen a decline from 63% in the previous day, indicating growing uncertainty. What to Watc...