Iran accelerates construction of new underground nuclear facility – media

Iran has significantly accelerated the construction of a protected underground facility near its nuclear complex in Natanz.

Analysis of satellite images suggests that Tehran has not curtailed its nuclear program, but is likely reviving it, while strengthening key facilities to protect against future air strikes. This is stated in an article by The Washington Post, which conducted its own analysis of satellite images and attracted independent experts to assess the work at the Kuh-e Kolang Gaz La, or Pickaxe Mountain.

According to satellite images, construction work is underway at the facility located in the Zagros mountain range, about a mile south of the Natanz nuclear complex, which was bombed by Israeli and American forces in June.

The publication notes that the exact purpose of the facility remains unclear. IAEA inspectors have never visited it, and the agency's director general, Rafael Grossi, said Iran had dismissed its questions about the location. Analysts estimate that the underground chambers at Pickaxe Mount Kirka could be up to 100 meters deep, making them even more secure than the Fordow facility.

Although Iran said in 2020 that a centrifuge factory would be located there, the size and depth of the tunnels have raised doubts among experts. They believe the facility could be used for clandestine uranium enrichment or as a secure storage facility for weapons-grade uranium.

According to three Iranian nuclear experts who analyzed satellite images, there are three main signs of increased work:

- the security perimeter has been strengthened (1,200 meters of protective wall have been built since late June and a new road has been laid along it);

- the structures at the entrance to the tunnel have been reinforced;

- the volume of excavated rock has increased.

"The presence of dump trucks, trailers and other heavy equipment … indicates continued construction and expansion of the underground facility," said Joseph Rodgers, a fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, which issued a report last month noting the activity at Pickaxe Mountain.

"The administration will continue to monitor any attempt by Iran to rebuild its nuclear program. As President Trump has said, he will never allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," said a White House official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak on the record.

According to the IAEA, by the time the Israeli strikes began on June 13, Iran had accumulated nearly 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity, just one step away from the 90% needed to create a nuclear weapon. The location of these stocks remains unknown.

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