Iran’s most sensitive nuclear facilities are now buried deep underground, making them nearly impossible to destroy with a single military strike, according to Rafael Grossi, the chief of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog.
According to Iran International News Agency, Grossi, who leads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), recently told the Financial Times that these sites lie “half a mile underground,” accessible only by a long spiral tunnel. He described his visits to these fortified locations, highlighting their extraordinary depth and security.
Grossi’s warning comes as negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program remain deadlocked. He cautioned that if talks collapse, the situation could quickly escalate into open conflict.
“The Iranian thing has incredible potential to become catastrophic. If there is a failure in negotiation, this will imply most probably military action,” Grossi said.
Recent satellite imagery has revealed new tunnel complexes and expanded security perimeters near Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility, fueling concerns among international observers.
The IAEA has requested explanations from Iran about the purpose of these tunnels, but Iranian officials have refused to provide details, insisting it is “none of your business”. Tehran has also restricted access for IAEA inspectors, further increasing suspicion about the true nature of its nuclear activities.
The United States and its allies worry that these underground sites could be used to store highly enriched uranium or advanced centrifuges, potentially enabling Iran to move closer to developing a nuclear weapon. While Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful, the IAEA says it cannot verify this claim due to lack of transparency and cooperation from Tehran.
Grossi emphasized the urgent need for continued dialogue, warning that the alternative could be disastrous. As technical talks between Iran and the US continue, the world watches closely, aware that the stakes could not be higher.
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