Western intelligence sources say Tehran is deliberately prolonging nuclear talks to alter its nuclear sites and shield them from possible military strikes.
“While nuclear talks are taking place, and Iran keeps scheduling yet another meeting, they are exploiting the time to modify nuclear facilities in ways that could diminish the impact of a potential military strike on those sites and their outcomes,” one source told The Jerusalem Post.
Satellite images show ongoing construction at several sites, a trend experts say began in October 2024 after Israel destroyed Iran’s S-300 missile systems. Iran has since pushed national security assets underground and accelerated work at a deeper Natanz facility.
A recent Institute for Science and International Security report noted a rush to finish key parts of the Natanz site.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu told President Trump that “Tehran is simply buying time” and only a credible military threat will stop Iran’s uranium enrichment.
European officials warn the U.S. that Iran aims to divide allies before the UN sanctions snapback window closes in October.