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Understanding Pickaxe Mountain: Iran's Hidden Nuclear Site Amid Tensions

KVIA•Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 6:02 AM•CNN Newsource

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President Trump has indicated that the U.S. may soon target Iran's Pickaxe Mountain, a secretive underground facility believed to house enriched uranium and advanced centrifuges. Located south of the Natanz enrichment site, this heavily fortified facility is buried over 300 feet underground, making it a challenging target for airstrikes. Iran has warned that any attack on its nuclear facilities would escalate regional conflict. The facility, under construction since 2020, is suspected of being a key part of Iran's nuclear ambitions, despite Tehran's claims of peaceful intentions. Analysts suggest that while a military strike could disrupt operations, the deeply buried core may remain largely intact.

Key Details: • Pickaxe Mountain is located about a mile south of the Natanz facility. • The facility is buried at least 100 meters (328 feet) underground. • Construction began in 2020, and the site is believed to be not yet operational. • Iran claims its nuclear program is for peaceful energy purposes. • U.S. and Israeli intelligence suspect enriched uranium and centrifuges are stored there.

military trump geopolitics nuclear iran

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Donald TrumpNatanzInstitute for Science and International SecurityPickaxe MountainCenter for Strategic & International Studies

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