IAEA and Intelligence Report Renewed Nuclear and Missile Activity in Iran Despite UN Sanctions

Recent satellite imagery and expert analysis indicate renewed activity and accelerated construction at Iranian nuclear sites, particularly a major underground facility near Natanz known as Pickaxe Mountain, following significant damage from U.S. and Israeli strikes in June. Despite Iran not actively enriching uranium currently, movements around nuclear sites and ongoing construction suggest efforts to rebuild or conceal nuclear capabilities, raising concerns about Tehran's nuclear ambitions amid stalled international oversight. Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a critical issue, with potential to produce multiple nuclear weapons if weaponized. Concurrently, Iran is reportedly rebuilding its ballistic missile program by importing precursor materials from China, despite United Nations sanctions reinstated last month that prohibit such activities. These developments occur as the 2015 nuclear agreement (JCPOA) has expired, and diplomatic efforts face deadlock, while Iran demands more transparency yet restricts inspections. The situation underscores a complex and opaque phase in Iran's nuclear program, necessitating urgent international diplomatic engagement.