Iran Strengthens Underground Nuclear Complex Amid Rising Tensions

Sat Feb 14 2026 01:07:06 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

New satellite images reveal Iran is fortifying an underground complex near its nuclear facility as tensions with the US escalate, with experts offering insights into the implications of this activity.

Iran's fortification of a nuclear facility’s underground complex raises concerns amid heightened tensions with the US, particularly as negotiations surrounding its nuclear program continue. Satellite images indicate strengthening measures at Pickaxe Mountain, suggesting a response to potential military actions. Experts analyze the purpose of the facility and its operational status.

According to recent satellite imagery analysis, Iran has been reinforcing an underground complex located near its nuclear facilities. This activity coincides with growing tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly as discussions between Iranian and US representatives are ongoing. President Donald Trump has issued threats of renewed military action unless Iran agrees to new terms regarding its nuclear program.

Satellite images, examined by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), reveal that the entrances to tunnels within Pickaxe Mountain, also known as Mount Kolang Gaz La, are being fortified. Experts believe that this infrastructure could serve to safeguard Iran's uranium enrichment operations or vital equipment. However, the specific intentions of the facility and whether it is currently functional remain uncertain.

Despite Iran's insistence that its nuclear ambitions are purely peaceful and that it is not pursuing nuclear weaponry, concerns persist. In June 2025, Trump indicated that Iran might be mere weeks away from developing a nuclear weapon, leading to airstrikes on several underground sites, although Pickaxe Mountain was not among them.

A satellite image from February 10 shows new concrete being laid at one of the tunnel entrances, with construction equipment observed at the site. This suggests significant activity aimed at enhancing the entrances to offer better protection against potential airstrikes.

Analyzing the changes, experts from ISIS and the UK-based intelligence firm Maiar note that ongoing construction indicates the facility may not yet be operational. They have expressed concerns that the extensive construction could suggest intentions for more sensitive operations, like uranium enrichment.

Additionally, satellite imagery shows similar defensive repairs underway at the Natanz nuclear site and the Isfahan nuclear complex, both of which have come under scrutiny during military conflicts in the past.

In conclusion, experts note that Iran's moves point to a strategic effort to shield essential facilities from external threats, indicating that the country's nuclear program remains a focal point of international concern.