Iran's heavily fortified Pickaxe Mountain is under intense scrutiny following intelligence assessments that Tehran has moved thousands of uranium enrichment centrifuges into the underground complex. This move comes after extensive damage to its nuclear infrastructure in June 2025, attributed to US and Israeli strikes. Officials believe Iran is relocating sensitive equipment to preserve its enrichment capabilities from future attacks.

Satellite imagery reveals continuous engineering work, reinforced tunnel entrances, and construction activity beneath the mountain, located near the Natanz nuclear complex. While Iran claims the site is for advanced centrifuge manufacturing, international inspectors cannot verify its activities. The focus on Pickaxe Mountain intensified after "Operation Midnight Hammer" in June 2025, which targeted key Iranian nuclear sites, including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.

Assessments suggest that between 400 and 450 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium survived previous operations and its whereabouts are unaccounted for. Experts at the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) consider Pickaxe Mountain a likely location for storing or preserving this material, though independent verification is impossible due to lack of access. The depth and granite protection of the complex present significant challenges for potential military strikes.