Iran may be rebuilding nuclear facilities, CNN analysis shows

Exclusive satellite images obtained by CNN from Vantor show signs that Iran may be trying to rebuild its nuclear facilities.

A CNN visual investigation detected new activity at several nuclear facilities and missile sites across the country in late June and early July. Activity at nuclear facilities, especially, raises questions about whether Tehran has violated the memorandum of understanding signed with the United States on June 17.

For weeks, satellite image providers restricted the release of photos of the region following a request from the US government. CNN was able to analyze the footage after those restrictions were briefly eased. With the resumption of US military action, some restrictions have already been resumed.

CNN found significant activity at a site in the Parchin military complex, known as Taleghan 2, where experts believe explosive material for nuclear weapons is stored.

An analysis of the facility, carried out in conjunction with the Institute for Science and International Security, identified repair and reconstruction work on several craters left by US and Israeli bombing, seen in images captured on June 22 and July 7.

At Pickaxe Mountain, a site suspected of housing underground nuclear facilities, images from June 21 show vehicles entering and exiting tunnels while the memo was in effect.

CNN has requested comment from the Iranian and US governments on these findings. A Pentagon representative told CNN it would not discuss combat conditions or intelligence issues due to operational security protocols.

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Source: CNN