Despite an intensive joint bombing campaign by the United States and Israel, intelligence officials warn that Iran’s ballistic missile infrastructure remains a significant and enduring threat.
According to a report by The Times of Israel, Tehran still possesses the capability to repair damaged launch systems and maintains a diverse arsenal comprising thousands of missiles.
Military planners are particularly concerned about the resilience of Iran’s launch facilities. US officials, cited by The Wall Street Journal, revealed that Iranian forces can “dig out or repair many of the launchers” that were damaged or buried during recent airstrikes. This suggests that the destruction of these sites may only offer temporary relief rather than a long-term neutralization of the threat.
Although the ongoing conflict has significantly reduced Iran’s military resources, the scale of its original stockpile ensures it remains a potent force. Officials estimate that roughly half of Iran’s missile inventory has either been used in combat or destroyed by allied strikes.
Beyond its land-based capabilities, concerns are also mounting over maritime security. US officials disclosed that Iran still retains a limited number of cruise missiles designed for naval warfare. These weapons could potentially be deployed against vessels in the Persian Gulf or against US forces attempting to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
This ongoing capability poses a direct risk to global trade routes and the safety of international personnel, particularly as US operations continue to ensure the strategic waterway remains free of sea mines.