Satellite Images Reveal Major Construction Surge at Suspected Iranian Nuclear Site

New satellite imagery indicates a significant increase in construction activity at Iran's "Mount Miyak" (Har Mikush) site, located near the Natanz nuclear facility. Analysis of images taken over the past six years, conducted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), shows a marked rise in construction volume in the last year. The underground facility, believed to be part of Iran's clandestine nuclear program, has transitioned from "active excavation" to "internal construction and external reinforcement."

Intelligence officials are closely monitoring Mount Miyak due to concerns that Iran may be reviving its nuclear weapons program at the site. Recent assessments suggest the facility could serve as a secure location for such activities, potentially including the transfer of centrifuges or enriched uranium. However, ongoing construction suggests the site may not yet be operational for uranium enrichment.

Amidst these developments, the U.S. military is reportedly accelerating its efforts to develop weapons capable of striking deeply buried underground facilities like Mount Miyak. Former President Donald Trump has previously stated that the U.S. might attack the site and that plans are ready. The facility's location deep beneath a granite mountain presents a significant challenge for potential strikes, possibly exceeding current U.S. military capabilities.

Reports indicate the U.S. Department of Defense has engaged in "planning marathons" to devise strategies for attacking such hardened targets. This includes research and development into next-generation bunker-buster munitions designed to penetrate deeper than existing weapons. A Pentagon agency also recently approved emergency funding for repairs to a unique underground test facility in New Mexico, believed to be for testing new weapons against rapidly evolving threats, potentially including those posed by Mount Miyak.