Iran, Feb 19 : Recent satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening critical military and nuclear infrastructure amid ongoing diplomatic engagement with the United States and heightened regional tensions involving Israel.
Analysts reviewing the latest images report significant construction activity at the Parchin military complex, situated about 30 kilometres southeast of Tehran. A newly developed structure at the site appears to have been shielded with reinforced concrete and layered with earth, suggesting efforts to increase protection against potential aerial strikes. The location had reportedly sustained damage during an Israeli strike in October 2024, according to regional security assessments.
Before the alleged attack, imagery showed a large rectangular building standing intact. Subsequent visuals revealed extensive destruction. Current photographs indicate rebuilding efforts alongside enhanced overhead fortification, which experts interpret as a move to harden the facility against future assaults.
Parchin has long drawn international scrutiny. Western intelligence agencies have previously alleged that the complex was linked to weapons-related nuclear experiments in the early 2000s claims Tehran has consistently rejected, insisting its nuclear programme serves peaceful purposes. However, Iran’s enrichment of uranium to 60 per cent purity has intensified global concern.
Additional satellite analysis highlights activity at the Isfahan nuclear facility, part of Iran’s broader uranium enrichment network. The complex, which includes underground infrastructure, is believed by diplomatic sources to store a significant share of the country’s enriched uranium reserves.
Imagery captured in late January showed Iran sealing tunnel entrances at the Isfahan site by filling them with soil. A February 9 assessment confirmed that a third entry point had also been blocked, effectively closing known access routes to the underground network. The Institute for Science and International Security described the entrances as completely buried, indicating a calculated attempt to safeguard subterranean assets.
Further evidence suggests repairs at missile bases and additional reinforcement work near other nuclear-linked installations damaged during last year’s hostilities involving Israel and the United States. The broader pattern points to a strategy of reconstruction and defensive consolidation following earlier strikes.
The developments come as Washington and Tehran pursue negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, even as the US maintains a substantial military presence in the region. Observers note that the fortification of sensitive sites could complicate future military calculations while adding pressure on diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation.