Pentagon Considers Options for Iran's Deep Nuclear Sites

Sep 10, 2026

78 min

Sep 10, 2026 03:30

Pentagon explores options for Iran’s deepest nuclear sites: Report

## Pentagon's Strategic Considerations

The Pentagon is evaluating potential military strategies to target Iran's deeply buried nuclear facilities. This comes as satellite images reveal increased construction activity at a site near Natanz, known as Pickaxe Mountain. The site is believed to be fortified to withstand conventional airstrikes, posing a significant challenge for any military intervention.

## Military Challenges

The United States has operational plans for a possible strike on these underground complexes. However, there is uncertainty about whether current weaponry can effectively penetrate the site's defenses. The US has previously employed bunker-busting bombs against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, but the depth and fortification of Pickaxe Mountain present a more formidable target.

## Construction Developments

Recent analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies indicates that construction at Pickaxe Mountain has intensified, with activities shifting from excavation to internal and external fortification. The site, tunneled beneath granite, is suspected to be a potential location for Iran's nuclear activities, although its exact purpose remains unconfirmed.

## Verification and Oversight Concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency has faced challenges in fully inspecting Iran's nuclear sites, leading to gaps in verification. This lack of oversight raises concerns about the potential for Iran to use these facilities for sensitive nuclear operations, complicating international efforts to monitor and respond to Iran's nuclear program.

## Future Developments

The Pentagon is reportedly developing new penetrator weapons capable of reaching greater depths, although details about these plans remain undisclosed. The situation underscores the complexities of addressing Iran's nuclear ambitions and the strategic challenges posed by deeply buried facilities.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram