Why did Israel choose Natanz for the attack?
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English 
العربية
Israel's decision to target the Natanz nuclear facility is based on its critical role in Iran's uranium enrichment program. Here's why Natanz is such a significant target: * Main Enrichment Site: Natanz is Iran's primary and largest uranium enrichment facility. It houses thousands of centrifuges useRead more
Israel’s decision to target the Natanz nuclear facility is based on its critical role in Iran’s uranium enrichment program. Here’s why Natanz is such a significant target:
See less* Main Enrichment Site: Natanz is Iran’s primary and largest uranium enrichment facility. It houses thousands of centrifuges used to enrich uranium, which can be used for nuclear power or, if further enriched, for nuclear weapons.
* Heart of the Nuclear Program: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the strike aimed at “the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program” and “nuclear weaponization program.” Any disruption at Natanz directly impacts Iran’s enrichment capabilities and serves as a powerful message.
* Production of Enriched Uranium: Natanz is where Iran has produced the vast majority of its nuclear fuel, including uranium enriched to various levels. While Iran claims its program is for peaceful purposes, the ability to enrich uranium to higher, weaponizable levels makes Natanz a key concern for Israel and the international community.
* Symbolic Importance: Beyond its technological capacity, Natanz holds symbolic status as a central pillar of Iran’s nuclear strategy. Hitting this fortified site sends a strong message and acts as a lever in the ongoing standoff over nuclear proliferation.
* Prior Targets: Natanz has been the target of multiple cyberattacks and suspected Israeli-led sabotage operations in the past, including the Stuxnet virus, indicating its persistent importance as a target for those seeking to slow Iran’s nuclear progress.
* Underground Protection: While parts of Natanz are underground and protected by reinforced concrete, making them resistant to conventional airstrikes, the recent attacks reportedly targeted and damaged underground sections, including centrifuge halls and supporting infrastructure. This suggests a significant effort to cripple the facility’s operations.
In essence, by targeting Natanz, Israel aims to severely impact Iran’s ability to enrich uranium, which is seen as a crucial step towards developing nuclear weapons, and to convey a strong deterrent message.