Intelligence evaluations indicate that approximately one-third of Iran's missiles have been destroyed, while another two-thirds were damaged due to American-Israeli airstrikes during the ongoing conflict, which has now entered its second month.
Informed sources reported that American intelligence confirmed the destruction of around one-third of Iran's missiles during the war, with expectations that another two-thirds may have been damaged, destroyed, or buried underground. The sources noted that the status of about one-third of the missiles remains unclear, but it is likely that the bombardment caused damage or destruction to those missiles located within tunnels and underground shelters.
Details of the Event
The intelligence assessment clarifies that despite the destruction or disabling of most missiles, Tehran still possesses a significant missile stockpile and may be able to recover some of those buried or damaged missiles after the fighting ceases. However, this information contradicts statements made by President Donald Trump, who claimed that Iran has only a "very few missiles" left.
During a government meeting, Trump asserted that American forces had destroyed 99% of Iran's missiles, stating, "Only 1% of the missiles remain, which is unacceptable, because 1% means one missile could hit the hull of a billion-dollar ship."
Background & Context
Democratic Congressman Seth Moulton, a veteran Marine, declined to comment on the information but expressed skepticism regarding Trump's statements about the war's impact on Iran's missile arsenal. He remarked, "If Iran is smart, it has retained some of its capabilities and is not using everything it has... but is waiting."
According to sources, part of the problem lies in determining the number of missiles Iran had stored in underground shelters before the war began. Nicole Grajewski, an expert on Iranian missile forces and the Revolutionary Guard at Sciences Po in Paris, suggested that the Trump administration may have overestimated the impact of American strikes on Iranian capabilities. She noted that Tehran remains capable of conducting strikes from the "Bid Kaneh" military base despite being subjected to intense bombing.
Impact & Consequences
Grajewski expressed her belief that Iran still possesses around 30% of its missile capabilities, explaining that it has more than 12 large underground facilities capable of housing launchers and missiles. She questioned, "Have these facilities collapsed?"
On the other hand, an American official expressed doubt about the United States' ability to accurately assess Iran's missile capabilities, pointing out that it is unclear how many missiles are in the tunnels and may still be usable. He added, "I don't know if we will ever get an accurate number."
Regional Significance
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged the challenge posed by Iran's network of tunnels, noting that Iran is a vast country. Similar to Hamas and its tunnels in Gaza, Iran has spent any aid or economic development on tunnels and missiles. He emphasized that his country is "systematically pursuing them, with overwhelming force," asserting that "the results speak for themselves," although he did not provide any details regarding the percentage of missiles or drones that have been destroyed.
In conclusion, intelligence information regarding Iranian missiles remains contentious, as estimates vary between American officials and those issued by experts, reflecting the complexities of the military situation in the region.