Private satellite images obtained by CNN from Vantor indicate that Iran may be attempting to rebuild and rehabilitate several nuclear and missile facilities damaged in previous US and Israeli strikes.
CNN identified notable activity at the Taleghan 2 site within the Parchin military complex, which experts believe may be used to store explosive materials associated with nuclear weapons.
Activity Detected at Underground Nuclear Sites
Images captured on 21 June at Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected underground tunnel-based nuclear site, showed vehicles entering and leaving the tunnels while the memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington was still in effect.
CNN reported that Iran had constructed a concrete shield around the site before it was struck with precision bunker-busting bombs. More recent imagery showed temporary coverings placed over the bombed areas, later replaced with netting, alongside the appearance of concrete mixing trucks, suggesting that restoration work had begun.
New images analysed by CNN in cooperation with the Institute for Science and International Security also revealed vehicle movement near tunnel entrances at Pickaxe Mountain, a site believed to be used for developing Iran’s underground nuclear capabilities.
Experts cited by the network said the activity could indicate a potential breach of the memorandum of understanding, which prohibits the purchase or development of nuclear weapons and requires the existing status of Iran’s nuclear programme to be maintained.
However, no comparable activity was detected at other major nuclear sites, including Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan.
Missile Bases and Airfields Under Repair
The satellite images also showed repair work at missile facilities, including the Tabriz base, where new paving was observed, and the Kermanshah base, where excavators appeared to be clearing debris and cleaning tunnel entrances.
Restoration work was also visible at Tabriz Air Base, including efforts to fill a crater left by the bombing.
CNN noted that satellite companies had previously restricted the publication of recent imagery of Iran at the request of the US government. Those restrictions have since begun to ease, allowing analysts to identify the sites Tehran prioritised for repairs.
Tehran to Mashhad Railway Restored After US Strike
Separately, Iran’s Mehr News Agency broadcast footage on Friday showing part of the restoration work on the railway linking Tehran with the north-eastern city of Mashhad.
The footage showed maintenance work, labourers, equipment and machinery operating at one of the damaged sections. Mehr said the passenger railway had been struck by the United States in recent days.
