Satellite Images Show Iran Rebuilding Roofs Over Nuclear Sites Damaged in 2025 Strikes
WASHINGTON — Satellite imagery obtained in late January 2026 reveals that Iran has begun constructing roofs over damaged buildings at two of its nuclear sites targeted by U.S. and Israeli airstrikes last June. The images, captured by Planet Labs PBC, show new coverings over structures at the Isfahan and Natanz facilities, signaling Tehran’s attempts to protect and possibly recover critical nuclear materials from further observation.
The June 2025 strikes, which were part of a coordinated campaign reportedly involving the U.S. Air Force’s largest-ever B-2 bomber operation, severely damaged key infrastructure at these sites. The Natanz facility, home to the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, suffered extensive destruction, with rubble visible in satellite images taken shortly after the attacks. Now, new roofs obscure these damaged areas, complicating efforts by international inspectors and intelligence agencies to assess the extent of Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Andrea Stricker, an Iran analyst at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told The Associated Press the coverings likely serve the purpose of “assessing whether key assets — such as limited stocks of highly enriched uranium — survived the strikes.” She added, “They want to be able to get at any recovered assets they can get to without Israel or the United States seeing what survived.”
This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, as the U.S. maintains a naval armada in the Middle East to deter further escalation. The U.S. Department of State continues to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities closely, emphasizing the importance of transparency and compliance with international agreements.
Satellite surveillance has long been a critical tool in monitoring Iran’s nuclear program. However, the addition of these roofs effectively blocks visual confirmation of the condition and contents of the damaged buildings, complicating verification efforts by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA relies heavily on satellite imagery and on-site inspections to ensure compliance with nuclear nonproliferation standards.
U.S. officials have not publicly commented on the new imagery, but the reconstruction efforts underscore Iran’s determination to continue its nuclear program despite setbacks. The strikes last year were part of a broader strategy to delay Iran’s ability to produce weapons-grade material, a move supported by Israel and the United States amid fears of nuclear proliferation in the volatile Middle East.
Experts warn that Iran’s rebuilding efforts could signal a renewed push to advance its nuclear capabilities. The Department of Defense has previously highlighted the risks posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the need for vigilance in the region.
As Iran works to shield its nuclear assets from further scrutiny, the international community faces renewed challenges in enforcing restrictions and preventing the development of nuclear weapons. The ongoing situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomatic engagement and strategic deterrence in managing Iran’s nuclear program.
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