Israeli airstrike destroys Iran’s active nuclear facility

New details have emerged about an Israeli airstrike last month on Iran’s Parchin Military Complex, reportedly targeting the Taleghan 2 facility, which U.S. and Israeli intelligence say was used for nuclear weapons research. High-resolution satellite images reveal significant damage to the site. Officials claim the strike disrupted Iran’s efforts to resume nuclear weapons development.

Taleghan 2, once part of Iran’s Amad nuclear program, was officially shut down in 2003. However, recent activities at the facility reportedly included explosives testing and computer modeling related to nuclear devices.

The Institute has acquired high-resolution satellite imagery of the Israeli missile strikes on the Parchin Military Complex in Iran. Four buildings were destroyed, including Taleghan 2, a facility formerly involved in nuclear weapons development during Iran's Amad Plan in the… pic.twitter.com/OLwnyKSyEU

— Inst for Science (@TheGoodISIS) October 30, 2024

The U.S. warned Iran in June to cease such activities, but continued surveillance indicated the research persisted. Officials said the facility was testing plastic explosives critical for detonating nuclear weapons.

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The strike has placed Iran in a diplomatic bind. Since Taleghan 2 was not part of Iran’s declared nuclear program, Tehran cannot publicly acknowledge the attack without implicating itself in violating the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is increasing pressure on Iran. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi met with Iranian officials this week to address compliance issues ahead of a critical Board of Governors vote expected next week.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but Western officials argue the strike and additional intelligence suggest otherwise. Tehran has warned that further pressure could lead to reduced cooperation with the IAEA.