The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said it has detected significant Iranian activity around the heavily fortified “Pickaxe Mountain” site near the Natanz nuclear complex, drawing renewed attention to one of Iran’s most secretive underground facilities.

The development comes as the IAEA continues to seek access to the site, which is believed to contain deeply buried underground tunnels connected to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Tehran has so far refused to grant inspectors access to the complex.

Pickaxe Mountain is located approximately two kilometers south of the Natanz nuclear facility and contains two major underground tunnel systems. Construction at the site began after an above-ground centrifuge assembly facility at Natanz was damaged in 2020, prompting Iran to announce plans for a more secure underground replacement.

According to previous assessments, the facility is buried deep beneath the mountain, making it exceptionally difficult to reach or destroy in a potential military strike.

The IAEA has repeatedly sought clarification from Iran regarding activity at the site and has requested permission to inspect the facility. Iran’s refusal to provide access has left major questions over what equipment and infrastructure may currently be located underground.

(YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)