The Trump Iran nuclear threat has intensified as the US president warned that America could soon target Iran’s heavily fortified Kolang Gazla site near Natanz.

Trump has previously described the underground complex as a potential target if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington. The facility is located about 2 kilometres south of Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex in Isfahan province.

Kolang Gazla nuclear facility

Kolang Gazla, also known as Pickaxe Mountain, contains a deep underground tunnel complex that has attracted international attention because of its suspected connection to Iran’s nuclear programme.

Reports based on satellite imagery indicate that Iran has developed extensive underground infrastructure at the site. However, the exact activities inside the facility remain unclear, adding to concerns over the future of Iran’s nuclear programme.

Strait of Hormuz alternatives

Trump has also argued that the Strait of Hormuz is becoming less important as alternative routes are developed. Pipeline and overland projects through countries including Iraq and Syria are being considered to reduce dependence on the strategic waterway.

A proposed Iraq-Syria pipeline could eventually carry around 2 million barrels of crude oil per day toward the Mediterranean, offering another route for Gulf energy exports.

Wider regional tensions

The Strait of Hormuz remains a major concern for global energy markets, with shipping activity still far below normal levels. Any further US-Iran escalation could therefore affect both regional security and international oil supplies.