Tensions between Iran and Israel are again rising, and one name keeps coming up—Fordo, Iran’s underground nuclear base. Hidden beneath a mountain and protected from airstrikes, Fordo is one of Iran’s most secure and mysterious sites. With talks of military action and rising nuclear concerns, Fordo is now at the centre of international focus.
Where is Fordo and Why Is It Special?
Fordo is not just another nuclear facility. It is located 32 km from Qom, a holy city, and around 95 km southwest of Tehran. What makes it different is its location inside a mountain, almost 80 metres deep, making it very difficult for standard bombs to reach.
Iran started building the site secretly in 2006, but it came into the public eye in 2009, causing widespread global criticism. It is now considered the second biggest nuclear enrichment plant in Iran, after Natanz.
Why Fordo Worries the West
Western countries, especially Israel and the United States, believe Iran could use Fordo to produce weapons-grade uranium.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently reported that Fordo is enriching uranium up to 60% purity. This is close to the 90% level required for making a nuclear weapon.
Iran also uses advanced IR-6 centrifuges at Fordo, which can quickly raise enrichment levels. Reports suggest that with current capacity, Iran could make weapons-grade fuel in just 5–6 days, if it chooses to.
Is America Planning an Attack?
The US has shown serious concern. According to reports, former US President Donald Trump once asked defense officials whether the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, also called the Bunker Buster, could destroy Fordo.
This bomb is 13,000 kg in weight and is designed to penetrate deep into rock and concrete, making it suitable for underground targets like Fordo.
However, no country has ever used this bomb in an actual war. Experts say that using it could drag the US into a long-term military conflict with Iran, something it may not want.
What About Israel?
Israel has also identified Fordo as a high-priority target. But it does not have the kind of bomb needed to destroy a site like this. Israel owns the GBU-28, which can only go about 6 meters deep—not enough to breach Fordo’s underground setup.
Also, Fordo was protected by Iranian-Russian air defense systems. But in recent times, some of this defense is believed to be disabled, especially after Israeli cyberattacks and air missions. This may have left Fordo more exposed than before.
Is Fordo a Threat or Just a Nuclear Factory?
Iran claims Fordo is used for peaceful nuclear energy. But its secret construction, underground location, and advanced enrichment levels raise doubts.
Earlier, the site enriched uranium at just 5% purity, which is normal for nuclear power. But ever since Iran restarted uranium gas injection in 2019, enrichment has moved closer to weapons grade.
Recent Explosions Raise Fresh Questions
In recent days, Iranian media reported explosions near Fordo, though no international agency has confirmed them. These explosions raise concerns about possible attacks, accidents, or secret activity happening at the site.
Disclaimer: The article is based on publicly available media reports. Military strategies and political statements are subject to change. No official confirmation exists regarding recent explosions at Fordo.
Sources: TV9 Hindi, IAEA, AXIOS, National Union for Democracy in Iran
