Iran has begun constructing a security perimeter around two underground tunnel complexes near its Natanz nuclear site.

Satellite imagery obtained by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), reveals wall panels and road grading forming a perimeter that connects with the existing Natanz facility in Isfahan Province. One complex is newly constructed and deeply buried, likely intended to replace a centrifuge assembly plant destroyed at Natanz in 2020, while the other dates back to 2007 and appears to be undergoing upgrades.

“The creation of a security perimeter around deeply buried sites associated with uranium enrichment suggests that Iran is increasingly worried about an individual or group seeking to enter the tunnel complexes undetected,” the ISIS report stated. “Whether this type of protective barrier would be effective against a well-armed and resourced adversary is unclear.”

ISIS president David Albright tells Reuters the tunnels remain inaccessible to international inspectors, fueling concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“The complexes could be used to store Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium or undeclared nuclear materials, and advanced centrifuges that could quickly purify enough uranium for a bomb,” he says.

Meanwhile, the United States and Iran gearing up for a fourth round of discussions next Saturday in Oman to negotiate reinstating limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment program. While Tehran maintains it has the right to peaceful nuclear technology, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists any deal must result in the complete dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

Photo Credit: Institute for Science and International Security