Iran builds concrete shield at military site amid acute US tensions | Israel-Iran conflict News
New Satellite Imagery Reveals Iran’s Military Developments
Recent satellite images indicate that Iran has constructed a concrete shield over a new facility at a military site of significant sensitivity, reportedly advancing work at a location previously bombed by Israel in 2024. This development emerges amid escalating tensions involving the United States and the looming threat of regional conflict.
The imagery also suggests that Iran has buried tunnel entrances at a nuclear site that was targeted by U.S. forces during a 12-day conflict with Israel last year. This includes the fortification of tunnel entrances at another location and repairs to missile bases damaged during the fighting.
Approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Tehran, the Parchin military complex is among Iran’s most closely monitored sites. Over two decades ago, Western intelligence suggested that Iran conducted tests related to nuclear bomb detonations there. However, Iran has consistently denied pursuing nuclear weapons, maintaining that its program is solely for civilian purposes.
U.S. intelligence and the United Nations nuclear watchdog reported no evidence last year indicating that Iran was working towards nuclear armament.
Israel reportedly struck Parchin in October 2024, and subsequent satellite imagery shows significant damage to a rectangular building at the site, followed by signs of reconstruction in images from November. By February 2025, the new structure was concealed by what experts believe to be a concrete covering.
An analysis by the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) indicates that construction of a “concrete sarcophagus” around the new facility has progressed. David Albright, founder of ISIS, noted concerns that delays in negotiations may allow Iran to further entrench its facilities.
Additionally, satellite imagery revealed efforts to bury two tunnel entrances at the Isfahan complex, one of three Iranian uranium-enrichment plants bombed by the United States in June during the conflict. By early February, all entrances to the tunnel complex were reported as “completely buried.” Ongoing work near Natanz, another site hosting Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities, also indicates efforts to reinforce tunnel entrances.
These developments occur as Washington seeks to negotiate an agreement with Tehran regarding its nuclear program. U.S. and Iranian representatives recently reached an understanding on key principles during talks in Geneva but did not achieve a significant breakthrough. Reports suggest that Tehran may make detailed proposals in the coming weeks to bridge existing gaps in negotiations, which have faced considerable challenges, including U.S. attempts to expand the scope of discussions to include Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and regional support.
The U.S. military presence in the region has also intensified. President Donald Trump ordered a second aircraft carrier to the area, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is stationed approximately 700 kilometers from the Iranian coast.
While diplomatic channels are being explored, military maneuvers persist. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted war exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, aimed at preparing for potential security threats. Concurrently, Iran announced joint naval drills with Russia in the Sea of Oman, intended to enhance coordination against maritime security threats.
Amid these developments, the U.S. issued stern warnings to Tehran, suggesting a need for diplomacy while underscoring the potential for military action should negotiations fail.
