Israeli intelligence officials have claimed that Iran moved thousands of uranium enrichment centrifuges to a deep underground facility known as “Pickaxe Mountain” or “Kuh-e Kolang” last year, according to reports.
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The Wall Street Journal reported that US and Israeli officials believe Iran relocated the advanced centrifuges to tunnels built deep inside a mountain following a 12-day conflict in June last year, during which American and Israeli strikes targeted three major Iranian nuclear facilities.
Israeli officials said the relocation was carried out as part of Iran’s efforts to protect its nuclear infrastructure after the attacks. The claims come amid renewed tensions between Washington and Tehran, with the United States intensifying strikes against Iran in recent days.
US President Donald Trump has also indicated that the underground facility could become a potential target. According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump openly referred to the site during an interview on July 13, describing it as a significant and heavily protected location.
The report said the facility has been monitored by the United States and Israel for several years. Experts estimate that the underground complex is located around 300 to 450 feet beneath the surface and has the capacity to house multiple nuclear-related installations.
The alleged movement of centrifuges has raised concerns among international observers over Iran’s nuclear activities. Centrifuges are used to enrich uranium, a process that can support civilian nuclear energy programs but can also be linked to the production of material needed for nuclear weapons.
Iran has repeatedly maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful and aimed at civilian purposes. Tehran has also criticised US and Israeli actions, accusing both countries of escalating regional tensions through military operations.
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The latest claims emerge as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military confrontations between Iran and the United States. International mediators have been attempting to reduce tensions and revive discussions aimed at preventing further escalation in the region.
Neither Iran nor independent international agencies have publicly confirmed the Israeli intelligence claims regarding the relocation of centrifuges to the underground site.