Iran Enhances Nuclear Facility Security Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Fri Feb 13 2026 23:26:51 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Satellite images reveal Iran's efforts to fortify its underground nuclear complex at Mount Kolang Gaz La, heightening concerns over its nuclear ambitions amidst ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

The underground complex near Iran's nuclear facility is undergoing significant fortification, as captured in recent satellite imagery. This comes amidst escalating tensions with the U.S. over nuclear negotiations, where President Trump has threatened military action should an acceptable deal not be reached. Experts suggest the facility may serve to protect uranium enrichment activities or critical equipment, intensifying worries over Iran's nuclear intentions despite its claims of a peaceful program.

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 indicated Iran was as little as a month away from having a nuclear weapon as early as June 2025, when he ordered strikes on three underground nuclear sites during a brief conflict between Israel and Iran.

Recent satellite imagery from February 10 shows significant construction activity, including fresh concrete at one of the entrances and a boom pump delivering concrete, indicating ongoing fortification efforts. Analysts believe these modifications aim to strengthen the structure against potential air strikes, suggesting further defensive measures are in place at the facility.

Additionally, satellite images reveal defensive upgrades at the Natanz nuclear site and the Isfahan nuclear complex, with entrances sealed and repairs underway following previous air strikes. These actions signal Iran's preparation for potential military action and raise questions about the future of its nuclear program amidst a complex international landscape.