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3. Iran Fortifies Natanz Nuclear Site as U.S. Weighs Expanded Military Posture

Despite both the U.S. and Iran stating their preference for diplomacy over escalation, both sides are preparing for the possibility of violent escalation.

Iran has reportedly been rapidly fortifying their underground mountain complex at the Natanz nuclear site as seen in satellite imagery, according to the Jerusalem Post.

According to the report, concrete was seen being poured on tunnel entrances to fortify the site on Tuesday, but the presence of construction equipment suggests that repairs to centrifuge facilities are still undergoing.

With negotiations focusing on the nuclear issue, this area would be a point of focus in the event of a conflict scenario. This facility did not sustain significant damage from the U.S. and Israeli strikes in June 2025 and remains a cornerstone of Iran’s nuclear program, although Iran’s program overall has remained weakened since last year’s attacks. 

On Wednesday, The Pentagon has told a second aircraft carrier strike group to prepare for the possibility of being repositioned to the Middle East, following President Donald Trump’s exploration of the option in case talks with Iran fall through. 

Despite this, following his Wednesday meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump stated that he prefers to continue pursuing talks with Iran over the option of carrying out military strikes.

However, differences between the U.S. and Iranian positions remain. The U.S. has included the ballistic missile and proxy network issues on its list of core demands, however Iran remains adamant on only discussing the nuclear issue. 

With both parties shoring up their assets and reinforcing their leverage, Washington and Tehran appear to be positioning for continuing dialogue while maintaining the option for deterrence or response to escalation.