Tensions with the US, Iran prepares for possible strikes

2026-02-18 16:52:41Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Tensions with the US, Iran prepares for possible strikes

Recent satellite images show that Iran is repairing and strengthening a number of military and nuclear facilities, including in Parchin, Natanz and Isfahan, at a time when tensions with the United States are rising.

According to Reuters, the work includes building new concrete structures, covering tunnel entrances with soil, and repairing missile bases damaged during last year's clash with Israel.

"Concrete shield" in Parchin

At the Parchin military complex, about 30 kilometers southeast of Tehran, images show the construction of a new structure covered with concrete and then a layer of soil - a kind of protective "sarcophagus" over a new facility called Taleghan 2.

According to analysis by the Institute for Science and International Security, the construction of a structure that includes a long cylindrical element has been observed in the area, which could be a containment chamber for high-powered explosives – equipment considered essential for the development of nuclear weapons, but which could also be used for conventional weapons.

The institute's founder, David Albright, stated that Iran appears to be "burying" the new facility to make it as undetectable as possible and to protect it from air strikes.

Tunnel entrances in Isfahan "buried"

The nuclear complex in Isfahan, one of three Iranian uranium enrichment plants hit by the US in June, includes an underground area where – according to diplomats – a large portion of Iran's enriched uranium is stored.

According to ISIS, as of February 9, all three tunnel entrances to this complex have been completely covered with soil. Experts believe that this move is intended to reduce the effects of a possible air strike and make it difficult for a ground operation to seize or destroy the nuclear material.

Reinforcements also near Natanz

Other satellite images show work to strengthen and protect two entrances to a tunnel complex about 2 kilometers from Natanz. There are reports of ongoing activity with heavy equipment, although Tehran's specific plans for this facility remain unclear.

Damage and repairs to missile bases

According to the Alma Center for Research and Education, the missile base in Shiraz – one of the 25 main bases with the capacity to launch medium-range ballistic missiles – suffered minor surface damage during last year's conflict, while reconstruction efforts have been noted.

Meanwhile, a missile base in the Qom region, about 40 kilometers north of the city, suffered moderate damage, with repairs completed on the roof of a damaged building.

In the background, negotiations and threats

The developments come at a time when Washington is trying to negotiate a deal with Tehran over its nuclear program, while simultaneously warning of military action if talks fail.

Iran, for its part, denies that it intends to develop nuclear weapons, while recent satellite images shed light on its efforts to strengthen strategic infrastructure in the face of a possible escalation of tensions in the region.


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