US strikes have set Iran’s nuclear program back by an estimated one to two years, with Tehran now focusing on fortifying underground facilities rather than quickly restarting enrichment, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday.
Satellite imagery shows soil and concrete being poured over tunnel entrances and deep networks expanded beneath mountains near key sites, including areas close to Natanz Nuclear Facility.
“Analysts say Iran appears to be prioritizing survivability over speed, reinforcing hardened locations instead of visibly rebuilding centrifuge halls at Natanz or Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant,” the report said.
While experts believe Tehran may have concealed equipment that could support a smaller rebuilt operation in the future, there is no clear sign it has resumed uranium enrichment or moved toward a rapid weapons “breakout,” the report added.