Israel Reports Iran Moves Thousands of Centrifuges to Deep Underground Nuclear Site

Israel has recently provided the United States with intelligence indicating that Iran has transferred thousands of centrifuges to a deep underground facility known as "Mount Machoos." This move reportedly followed last year's "Operation With the Dog," during which key Iranian nuclear sites were attacked. The transfer aims to protect sensitive equipment from potential future strikes. Located near the Natanz nuclear site, Mount Machoos is considered one of the most secretive parts of Iran's nuclear program. Western intelligence estimates that tunnels there are carved hundreds of meters deep, making airstrikes extremely difficult. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not inspected the site because Iran has not declared it as a uranium enrichment facility. Iran claims the site is solely for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, but Western analysts suspect it could play a broader role in the nuclear program and might be used for uranium enrichment in the future.

The report notes that Mount Machoos was not a primary target in previous Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. However, Israeli security officials believe the relocated equipment could ensure the nuclear program's continuation despite attacks on other sites. An Israeli security source told the Wall Street Journal that prior military operations have not fully neutralized Iran's nuclear capabilities, and other sites still require attention. Experts caution that the mere transfer of centrifuges does not confirm active enrichment at Mount Machoos; the equipment might currently be stored there for protection.

In response to the report, U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that Mount Machoos could become a target for strikes if necessary. He emphasized that the U.S. continues to monitor developments at the site, which is now considered one of the most sensitive locations in Iran's nuclear program.