Iran May Be Rebuilding Nuclear Facilities, Satellite Images Suggest

Exclusive satellite imagery obtained by CNN indicates that Iran might be rebuilding some of its nuclear facilities. A visual investigation revealed new activity at several nuclear and missile sites across Iran in late June and early July. This activity, particularly at nuclear sites, raises questions about potential violations of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the United States on June 17.

Under the MoU, Iran committed to maintaining the 'status quo' of its nuclear program and refraining from developing nuclear weapons. For weeks, satellite image providers had blocked views of the region following a request from the US government. However, CNN was able to analyze images after these restrictions were temporarily lifted, before some were reimposed as US military operations resumed.

The network detected significant activity at a site within the Parchin military complex, known as ‘Taleghan 2.' Experts believe this site is used for storing explosive materials related to nuclear weapons development. An analysis, conducted with the Institute for Science and International Security in Washington, showed repair and reconstruction work on craters left by previous US and Israeli strikes. These repairs were visible in images taken on June 22 and July 7.

Further investigation at the Pickaxe Mountain site, suspected to be an underground nuclear facility, revealed vehicles entering and exiting tunnels during the period the MoU was in effect. Images taken on June 21 showed this activity. When asked for comment, a US Department of Defense official stated that the department would not discuss military operations or intelligence matters to protect operational security.

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The department would not discuss the circumstances of military operations or intelligence matters, in order to protect operational security.