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Satellite Images Show Iran Roofing Bombed Nuclear Sites to Obscure Activity

Analysts say the coverings likely mask salvage operations to check whether any nuclear material survived.

Overview

  • Planet Labs imagery shows new roofs over damaged structures at Natanz and Isfahan, with work finished at Natanz by late December and at Isfahan in early January.
  • Iran has barred International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors from the struck sites, and the watchdog did not respond to requests for comment as Tehran has not acknowledged the construction.
  • Experts reviewing the images say the work does not indicate reconstruction and likely supports recovery efforts and assessments of any surviving highly enriched uranium.
  • Separate images indicate continued excavation near Natanz at Kūh-e Kolang Gaz Lā (Pickaxe Mountain) and defensive measures near Isfahan, including dirt-packed tunnels and one entrance cleared and reinforced.
  • Imagery also shows rapid rebuilding at Parchin’s Taleghan 2 site linked to high-explosive testing, while the U.S. has moved the USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyers into the region as President Trump presses Tehran to negotiate.