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Satellite Images Show Iran Prioritizing Missile Repairs Over Nuclear Rebuilds

Experts say blocked inspections leave only limited imagery, suggesting minimal nuclear recovery.

Overview

  • A New York Times review of about two dozen sites struck in June found visible work at roughly half, concentrated at missile facilities.
  • Imagery and assessments indicate Iran has largely rebuilt key missile infrastructure, with the Shahroud plant showing signs of renewed operations within months.
  • Major enrichment complexes at Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow still display extensive aboveground damage, with debris clearing and new roofs consistent with salvage rather than restart.
  • Recent images show reinforced tunnel entrances near Isfahan and Natanz, including earthworks at the Pickaxe Mountain site, and new construction at Parchin featuring a roughly 150‑foot cylindrical chamber.
  • With IAEA access barred and satellites revealing only surface activity, analysts say the scale of any underground recovery cannot be independently verified.