What Is Pickaxe Mountain? The Iranian Nuclear-Linked Site Mentioned by Donald Trump
A site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located near Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex, has drawn renewed international attention after U.S. President Donald Trump referred to it while discussing tensions between the United States and Iran.
The underground facility has been linked to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, although Iranian officials have stated that there is currently no nuclear activity taking place at the site.
Where Is Pickaxe Mountain?
Pickaxe Mountain is located approximately 220 kilometers south of Tehran and around 2 kilometers from the Natanz nuclear complex, one of Iran’s best-known nuclear facilities.
Natanz has long been a focus of international attention because of its uranium enrichment operations. During recent regional conflicts, parts of the Natanz facility were damaged, while the underground construction at Pickaxe Mountain was not reported to have been directly targeted.
The mountain rises to about 1,600 meters above sea level, providing a naturally protected location for underground construction.
Why Is the Site Important?
According to the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), a U.S.-based non-profit research organization focused on nuclear security, construction at Pickaxe Mountain began in 2020 following an incident at the Natanz nuclear facility.
Iranian officials previously announced plans to build a larger and more advanced underground facility near Natanz for activities related to advanced centrifuge technology.
However, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated on July 22, 2026, that there is no nuclear activity currently taking place at Pickaxe Mountain.
What Do Satellite Images Show?
Researchers from the Institute for Science and International Security have analyzed commercially available satellite imagery of the area.
According to the organization, the site includes multiple tunnel entrances leading to an underground complex believed to be located deep beneath the mountain. The report also notes the presence of security infrastructure and ongoing construction activity.
Experts reviewing the imagery have suggested that additional protective measures have been added around some tunnel entrances, although construction appears to be continuing.
Is the Facility Operational?
Based on publicly available satellite imagery, the Institute for Science and International Security said it does not believe the facility is fully operational at this stage.
The organization added that construction appears to be ongoing, but it remains unclear when the project could be completed.
Why Has the Site Drawn International Attention?
The location has attracted interest because it is situated near Iran’s existing nuclear infrastructure and is built deep underground.
Some analysts believe such facilities are designed to provide additional protection for sensitive infrastructure. However, independent experts note that the exact purpose and future use of the underground complex cannot be confirmed solely through satellite imagery.
What Have Experts Said?
Several security analysts have observed that the depth and location of the underground complex could make it difficult to reach using conventional aerial munitions.
According to assessments cited by the Institute for Science and International Security, any future military planning involving the site would depend on a range of operational and strategic factors. These assessments are analytical opinions and do not indicate any confirmed military action.
As of now, the facility remains under construction, and international attention continues to focus on developments related to Iran’s nuclear program and regional security.
