16.06.2025 18:20
Israel's "Rising Lion" operation continues with airstrikes targeting Iran. In the attacks, 14 nuclear scientists lost their lives, and the Natanz facility was partially destroyed. However, the Fordo Fuel Enrichment Facility, built deep underground, still stands. Experts state that striking this facility is only possible with the special bombs in the possession of the United States.
The large-scale airstrikes initiated by Israel last Friday targeted Iran's nuclear program, escalating tensions in the region. Under the operation codenamed "Rising Lion," Iran's air defense systems were severely weakened, and numerous critical facilities were attacked. According to local sources, at least 14 nuclear scientists lost their lives in these attacks.
FORDO STILL STANDS TALL
It has been reported that Israel specifically targeted centers related to the nuclear program, with some facilities in Natanz partially destroyed. However, Fordo Fuel Enrichment Facility, which is Iran's most controversial and strategically important nuclear facility, remains intact...
"THE OPERATION WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED COMPLETE WITHOUT DESTROYING IT"
Israel's Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, stated in a press release, "The entire operation will be completed with the elimination of Fordo," clearly outlining Israel's objective. Located in a mountainous area near the city of Qom, approximately 160 kilometers south of Tehran, Fordo is notable for its construction deep underground. Protected by advanced air defense systems, this facility is seen as a symbol of both Iran's determination in nuclear technology and its symbolic power. While Iranian sources confirmed an attempted attack on the facility, it was stated that Fordo did not suffer significant damage.
CANNOT BE DESTROYED WITHOUT U.S. SUPPORT
American Middle East expert Brett McGurk emphasized that Fordo is the center of Iran's production of weapon-grade nuclear material. According to experts, the weapon systems in Israel's possession are not sufficient to destroy such a deep and protected facility. The only munitions capable of destroying such facilities are the GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrators, which are in the U.S. inventory and can only be carried by B-2 stealth bombers. Not only airstrikes but also methods such as cyberattacks or internal sabotage are on the table. The attack carried out with the Stuxnet virus in 2010 and Mossad's role in the explosion in Natanz in 2021 strengthen this possibility. However, analysts believe that Iran's recent state of alert makes such attempts riskier.
IS THE NEW TARGET KAZMA MOUNTAIN?
Even hitting Fordo may not be enough to completely halt Iran's nuclear capacity. It is reported that a new underground nuclear facility is being constructed in the Kuh-e Kolang Gaz La area, known to the public as "Kazma Mountain," south of Natanz. Claims that this new facility will be deeper and more protected indicate that Israel faces a long and challenging process ahead.