Iran’s Enriched Uranium Likely Buried Beneath Bombed Facilities

Recent statements by a high-ranking official suggest that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium may be hidden beneath three nuclear sites targeted by US airstrikes. Although the US aimed to destroy Iran’s ability to produce nuclear weapons, some experts believe the material was concealed just prior to the attacks.

Vice President JD Vance indicated that Iran’s approximately 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%—below weapons-grade levels—are probably buried underground. He emphasized that the US focused on disabling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, not necessarily locating the stockpile exactly.

J.D. Vance on Fox News — Vance stated, “The uranium is likely buried, but our goal was to prevent nuclear weapons development.”

While the uranium falls short of the 92% purity needed for weapons, experts warn it could still be exploited for malicious purposes. The damaged Fordow nuclear facility remains under investigation, with officials expressing concern about what remains after the strikes.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi admitted that the underground damage assessment is incomplete, urging inspectors access to determine the extent of the destruction.

Satellite images reveal activity just before the attacks, with trucks seen outside Fordow—a sign that Iran might have moved nuclear materials ahead of potential strike. Iran’s Foreign Minister had warned on June 13 about taking “special measures” to protect nuclear assets, raising suspicions that the uranium could be relocated or hidden.

Damage at Iran's Fordow nuclear site — Damage at Iran’s Fordow nuclear enrichment site after US strikes.

Some analysts suggest Iran may have transferred the uranium to foreign adversaries like Russia, China, or North Korea, potentially reconstituting their nuclear program elsewhere. Others speculate about smuggling it to terror groups for a dirty bomb, but experts consider this unlikely unless the uranium is enriched beyond 90%.

DC physicist Steve Nelson noted that enriched uranium suitable for weaponization is not ideal for dirty bombs, as the material needed would be disproportionally large relative to its explosive power. Thus, the scenario involving terrorism remains improbable in his view.