WASHINGTON: A classified CIA report has revealed that despite heavy bombing, Iran still retains approximately 75% of its mobile missile launchers and 70% of its missile stockpile.
According to the report, Iran could withstand a US naval blockade for three to four months before facing severe economic pressure. The findings also indicate that Iran has reactivated its underground missile sites, repaired damaged missiles, and produced new ones, maintaining a significant portion of its strategic capabilities.
The report challenges statements made by former US President Donald Trump, who claimed from the Oval Office that most Iranian missiles had been destroyed, leaving only 18–19% intact. The CIA assessment suggests Iran’s resilience and ability to endure pressure may exceed previous intelligence estimates.
US officials noted that the Iranian leadership has become more determined and hardened in response to ongoing pressures, raising questions about the effectiveness of the bombing campaign.
Trump: Three US warships pass Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian attacks
Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced that three US Navy destroyers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz despite attacks from Iranian forces, with no damage sustained to the American ships.
In a statement on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump said that while the Iranian attack targeted the destroyers, the missiles and drones launched were intercepted and neutralized without harming the US vessels. He added that the American forces destroyed the small attacking Iranian boats, which sank in the water.
Trump described the Iranian drone strikes as ineffective, claiming they fell into the sea “like butterflies,” and criticized Iran’s leadership, calling them “madmen” who would use nuclear weapons if given the chance. He warned that Iran would not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
He also said that the US has delivered a “knockout” to Iran, and if diplomatic deals are not signed, even harsher measures could follow.
