Iran maintains missile capabilities despite U.S. and Israeli strikes

A conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has escalated following a major military strike on February 28, which resulted in the deaths of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials. While U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth initially claimed Iran’s missile program was “effectively destroyed,” recent developments suggest otherwise.

Satellite imagery and intelligence indicate that Iran has used bulldozers to reopen approximately 50 of its 70 missile storage depots. Furthermore, intelligence reports suggest that seven out of ten missiles remain functional. Iran has utilized recent periods of ceasefire to access and repair these sites.

In retaliation, Iran has launched continuous drone and missile attacks against various targets, including three Jordanian bases housing U.S. military personnel. On July 17, an Iranian strike killed three U.S. service members and wounded over one hundred others. The conflict has also involved Hezbollah in Lebanon, leading to cross-border strikes and ground troop movements by Israel.

Economic tensions have risen as Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil trade. Although a framework agreement for a ceasefire was reached in mid-June, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared the truce over following renewed attacks from both sides.