(Reuters) - Iran could soon begin sensitive atomic activities in an underground facility deep inside a mountain, diplomatic sources said on Wednesday, a move that would up the ante in a stand-off with big powers demanding Tehran curb such work.
Iranian experts have carried out the necessary preparations at Fordow near the Shi'ite Muslim holy city of Qom, paving the way for the Islamic Republic to start higher-grade uranium enrichment at the site on a former military base.
The machines, equipment and nuclear material needed have been transferred and installed at Fordow, the sources added, suggesting the work itself -- until now conducted above ground at another location -- could start when Iran takes the decision.
"They are ready to start feeding," a diplomatic source said, referring to the process in which low-enriched uranium gas is refined by centrifuges to increase the fissile isotope ratio.
