ISIS noted the new perimeter was not easy to build, given the mountainous terrain. The wall appears to be supported by a network of trenches that could hold wiring for communications, camera surveillance, and light poles. The tunnel complexes are probably not fully operational yet, although ISIS conceded it was difficult to tell based on satellite photos. One of the tunnels was originally built in 2007, remained inert from 2010 to 2020, and was then reactivated five years ago. The other one was built to replace an underground uranium centrifuge assembly plant that was destroyed in a 2020 explosion.
IAEA Director Rafael Grossi on Thursday asked Iran to clarify the purpose of the tunnels and explain the construction of the new security perimeter. He said Iran’s reply was, “It’s none of your business.” Grossi expressed support for Trump administration envoy Steve Witkoff and said he was optimistic Iran could make a deal. But on Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio repeated the administration’s position that Iran must suspend all uranium enrichment.“If Iran wants a civil nuclear program, they can have one just like many other countries can have one, and that is they import enriched material,” Rubio said. Such an arrangement is commonplace for countries that have legitimate need for below-weapons-grade nuclear material. (Read more)
