FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
New concrete structures and tunnel closures are observed in Parchin, Isfahan, and near Natanz.
Recent satellite images show that Iran has repaired and strengthened a number of military and nuclear facilities, including complexes in Parchin, Natanz and Isfahan, at a time when tensions with the United States are rising.
According to a Reuters report, the work includes building new concrete structures, covering tunnel entrances with soil, and repairing missile bases damaged during last year's clash with Israel.
New defensive structure in Parchin
At the Parchin military complex, about 30 kilometers southeast of Tehran, images show the construction of a new structure covered first with concrete and then with soil, on a facility called Taleghan 2.
The Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) analyzes that a structure has been built in the area that includes a long cylindrical element. According to the institute, it could serve as a containment chamber for high-powered explosives, equipment considered essential for the development of nuclear weapons, but which could also be used for conventional weapons.
The institute's founder, David Albright, says Iran appears to be covering the facility to make it less identifiable and protect it from airstrikes. This assessment represents the institute's analysis and does not confirm the ultimate function of the structure.
Tunnel entrances in Isfahan closed
The Isfahan nuclear complex, one of three Iranian uranium enrichment plants that were hit by the US in June, includes an underground area where, according to diplomats cited by Reuters, a significant portion of Iran's enriched uranium is stored.
According to ISIS, as of February 9, all three tunnel entrances to this complex have been completely covered with soil. Experts believe that this measure is intended to reduce the effects of a possible air attack and make it difficult for a ground operation to seize or destroy the nuclear material.
Reinforcements near Natanz
Other satellite images show work to strengthen and protect two entrances to a tunnel complex about two kilometers from Natanz. According to the report, heavy equipment activity continues in the area, while Tehran's specific plans for this facility remain unclear.
Damage and repairs to missile bases
The Alma Center for Research and Education reports that the missile base in Shiraz, one of the 25 main bases with the capacity to launch medium-range ballistic missiles, suffered minor surface damage during last year's conflict. According to the center, authorities have undertaken reconstruction work.
Meanwhile, a missile base in the Qom region, about 40 kilometers north of the city, suffered moderate damage. Repairs to the roof of a damaged building have been completed.
Negotiations and warnings
The developments come as Washington tries to negotiate a new deal with Tehran over its nuclear program, warning of military action if talks fail.
Iran denies it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons. Recent satellite analysis, according to sources cited by Reuters, shows that Tehran is strengthening its strategic infrastructure in a tense regional context.
Lini një Përgjigje