U.S. intelligence sources revealed to Reuters that the United States has managed to destroy approximately one-third of Iran's missile arsenal, while the majority of these capabilities still remain with Tehran. The sources confirmed that the status of another third of the missiles remains unclear, as it is believed that airstrikes may have damaged or destroyed some of these missiles or buried them in underground tunnels.
One source indicated that intelligence suggests a similar destruction rate for Iranian drone capabilities, with about one-third believed to have been destroyed. Despite the significant damage inflicted on Iran's missile capabilities, estimates indicate that Tehran still possesses a large stockpile of missiles and may be able to recover some buried missiles or repair damaged ones once fighting ceases.
Details of the Situation
This intelligence information contradicts statements made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed in a government meeting that Iran has only a "very few missiles" left. Trump explained that even if 99% of Iran's missiles were neutralized, the remaining percentage poses a significant threat, especially if it includes one missile capable of hitting a billion-dollar ship.
In a related context, a U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) official reported that Iranian missile and drone attacks have decreased by 90% since the beginning of the war. The official noted that U.S. Central Command has damaged or destroyed over 66% of Iran's missile, drone, and naval warfare production facilities, in addition to shipyards.
Background & Context
It is worth noting that the U.S. military operation against Iran, officially known as "Epic Fury," began on February 28 of last year. This operation aims to weaken the Iranian military by destroying its naval fleet and missile capabilities and ensuring that Tehran does not possess nuclear weapons. U.S. strikes have targeted over 10,000 Iranian military objectives so far, with reports indicating that 92% of large Iranian warships have been sunk.
Despite this, U.S. Central Command has not disclosed precise details about the extent of the damage inflicted on Iran's missile and drone capabilities. One source explained that part of the problem lies in the difficulty of determining the number of Iranian missiles stored in underground bunkers before the war began.
Impact & Consequences
Concerns are growing that Iran may regain some of its military capabilities after combat operations cease, potentially leading to renewed escalation in the region. Israeli military officials indicate that Iran possessed 2,500 ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israel before the war, and over 335 launch platforms have been "neutralized," representing 70% of Iran's launch capabilities.
However, Israeli officials acknowledge that eliminating the estimated remaining 30% of Iran's capabilities will be more challenging, complicating the security landscape in the region.
Regional Significance
These developments are of great importance to Arab countries, as Iran's continued possession of significant missile capabilities could impact regional security. There is increasing concern that Iran may use these capabilities in any future conflict, threatening the stability of the entire region.
In conclusion, developments regarding Iran's missile arsenal remain a vital topic that requires close monitoring, as any changes in these capabilities could directly affect regional and global security.