Satellite Images Reveal Israel's Airstrike on Former Iranian Nuclear and Missile Sites, Researchers Say

• Oct 27, 2024

Satellite images analyzed by an American researcher suggest that an Israeli airstrike targeted a former Iranian nuclear weapons development site and facilities linked to missile production on Saturday. According to the researcher, the building hit was part of Iran’s past nuclear weapons program, which was reportedly dismantled. Along with this structure, another nearby facility used to mix solid fuel for missiles was also struck. The information, based on satellite imagery, provides insight into the specific locations impacted by the airstrike.

The researcher noted that the first target was a building associated with Iran’s previous nuclear ambitions, indicating that while Iran's nuclear weapons development program may have been halted, certain infrastructures from the program still exist. These buildings, remnants of past nuclear activities, continue to be significant and sensitive locations due to their historical role in the country’s controversial nuclear program.

The second area hit is believed to be a facility dedicated to mixing solid fuel for missiles, which is an essential component for certain types of missiles, as solid-fuel rockets offer better mobility and are quicker to launch than liquid-fuel alternatives. Striking a facility involved in such missile production may have been a calculated move by Israel to limit Iran’s missile capabilities, as these weapons are considered a critical part of Iran's military power.

The American researcher’s assessment was corroborated by a second expert who reviewed the satellite images and reached similar conclusions regarding the airstrike targets. Although no further details have been confirmed about the scale of the damage or if any personnel were present, the researchers’ analysis sheds light on ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.

Israel has not officially confirmed or denied involvement in this incident, which is not unusual for the country. In the past, Israel has conducted similar airstrikes on suspected Iranian nuclear and missile sites, but direct acknowledgment is rare. This latest event, if verified, could mark yet another step in the region’s tense relations, particularly as Iran continues to assert that its nuclear ambitions are purely peaceful.