Washington/Tel Aviv (HRNW) – The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has reported, citing Israeli and U.S. officials, that Israeli intelligence estimates Iran moved thousands of centrifuge machines used for uranium enrichment to a highly secured underground location known as “Pickaxe Mountain.”
According to the report, the site, also referred to in Iran as Mount Kolang, is a deep underground complex located near Natanz. Experts cited in the report said the tunnels are believed to be located around 300 to 450 feet beneath solid rock, making the facility extremely difficult to target through air strikes.
Israeli Intelligence Claims
The report stated that Israel shared intelligence information with the United States, alleging that Iran relocated sensitive nuclear equipment to the underground complex to protect it from potential attacks.
Israeli officials reportedly expressed concerns that Iran could use the facility in the future for uranium enrichment or other sensitive nuclear activities.
What is “Pickaxe Mountain”?
According to the Wall Street Journal report, construction of the underground complex began after damage was caused to Iran’s Natanz centrifuge assembly facility in 2020.
Iran has previously stated that the site would be used to store and protect sensitive equipment; however, the exact nature of activities at the facility remains uncertain.
The report further stated that satellite images have shown signs of tunnel reinforcement, movement of heavy vehicles, and increased security measures around the site, suggesting continued activity at the complex.
No IAEA Access
The report stated that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) does not have access to the facility, preventing independent verification of activities taking place there.
Former U.S. officials reportedly said that if Iran were to begin uranium enrichment at the location secretly, monitoring such activities would become extremely challenging for international organizations.
Trump’s Statement
According to the report, U.S. President Donald Trump recently referred to “Pickaxe Mountain” as a possible target and indicated that it could be considered for military action if necessary.
Iran’s Position
Iran has not officially commented on these claims, according to the report. However, Tehran has repeatedly maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and that it is not seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
From a human rights and global peace perspective, issues involving nuclear programs, military tensions, and potential conflicts require emphasis on diplomatic solutions, international monitoring, respect for international law, and protection of civilian lives. Global institutions have consistently called for transparency and dialogue to prevent escalation and reduce humanitarian risks.
HRNW is reporting this development from the perspective of global peace, nuclear security, and human protection awareness.
🤝 Support the World’s No. 1 Human Rights News Agency – HRNW
👉 https://www.hrnww.com/?page_id=1083
⚠️ Important Note
This news is not affiliated with any government, institution, or party involved in the matter, nor does it represent HRNW’s position. HRNW publishes this information solely for public awareness, human rights education, and information sharing. The claims mentioned are attributed to respective sources and parties and may not have been independently verified in all aspects. Final facts and assessments remain subject to confirmation by relevant international organizations and investigations.
