A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck northern Iran on Friday, June 20, 2025, raising concern over its proximity to the country’s Fordow nuclear enrichment facility.
The tremor hit near Semnan, about 37 kilometers southwest, at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Iran’s state-run Tasnim News Agency reported a slightly stronger magnitude of 5.2.
The quake was felt in Tehran and surrounding areas, though initial reports indicate there was no major damage.
However, the timing of the earthquake coinciding with ongoing Israeli airstrikes has sparked worry among residents of particular concern is the Fordow facility in Qom Province.
While no structural damage has been confirmed, the coincidence of a seismic event so close to a sensitive nuclear site during military tension is unsettling.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued their targeted operations inside Iran.
Reports from Israeli outlet Ynetnews stated that an airstrike hit an air defense location in Behmai Province in the southwest.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the attack neutralized three surface-to-surface missile launchers and eliminated a group of Iranian military personnel.
In a statement posted on social media, the IDF said:
“A ‘cell’ of Iranian commanders and soldiers was also eliminated… including an IRGC base commander in western Iran responsible for 15 missile launchers.”
This strike is part of Israel’s broader military campaign to reduce threats amid heightened conflict between the two nations.
The conflict has already resulted in casualties on both sides, with reports claiming hundreds injured and dozens dead.
Although no lives were lost in the quake, the psychological impact on citizens already burdened by the ongoing military strikes has been significant.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain calm while assuring them that safety evaluations are ongoing.
