Iran has been fortifying an underground complex near one of its nuclear facilities, according to analysis of new satellite images. This activity comes at a time of heightened tensions as talks between Iranian and US officials continue, with President Donald Trump threatening fresh military action against Iran if it does not agree to a new deal on its nuclear programme.
The photos, first analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), a US-based think tank, show tunnel entrances being strengthened at Mount Kolang Gaz La - also known as Pickaxe Mountain. Experts say this facility may be designed to protect Iran's uranium enrichment activities or key equipment, but its exact purpose - and whether it is operational - remains unclear.
Iran insists its nuclear programme is entirely peaceful and denies it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons. However, Trump stated that Iran was as little as a month away from having a nuclear weapon in June 2025, prompting strikes on three underground nuclear sites where centrifuges were reportedly being used to produce highly enriched uranium last year during a conflict with Israel.
Despite previous US and Israeli strikes, Iran appears to be enhancing the security of its nuclear infrastructure. A satellite image from February 10, 2026, shows fresh concrete laid on top of one of the tunnels. Analysts noted the presence of a boom pump at the location, indicating ongoing construction.
Further assessments by experts suggested these changes aim to bolster the tunnel entrances against potential air strikes. Notably, the Natanz nuclear facility and the Isfahan nuclear complex have also seen recent defensive upgrades. This reflects Iran's strategic considerations in light of perceived threats from both the US and its regional adversaries.
The situation remains precarious as talks between Iran and the US aim to address these nuclear concerns, underscoring the complex dynamics surrounding Iran's nuclear program and international diplomacy.
The photos, first analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), a US-based think tank, show tunnel entrances being strengthened at Mount Kolang Gaz La - also known as Pickaxe Mountain. Experts say this facility may be designed to protect Iran's uranium enrichment activities or key equipment, but its exact purpose - and whether it is operational - remains unclear.
Iran insists its nuclear programme is entirely peaceful and denies it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons. However, Trump stated that Iran was as little as a month away from having a nuclear weapon in June 2025, prompting strikes on three underground nuclear sites where centrifuges were reportedly being used to produce highly enriched uranium last year during a conflict with Israel.
Despite previous US and Israeli strikes, Iran appears to be enhancing the security of its nuclear infrastructure. A satellite image from February 10, 2026, shows fresh concrete laid on top of one of the tunnels. Analysts noted the presence of a boom pump at the location, indicating ongoing construction.
Further assessments by experts suggested these changes aim to bolster the tunnel entrances against potential air strikes. Notably, the Natanz nuclear facility and the Isfahan nuclear complex have also seen recent defensive upgrades. This reflects Iran's strategic considerations in light of perceived threats from both the US and its regional adversaries.
The situation remains precarious as talks between Iran and the US aim to address these nuclear concerns, underscoring the complex dynamics surrounding Iran's nuclear program and international diplomacy.
