Iran Still Has a ‘Robust’ Missile Force

Israel may have inflicted serious damage on Iran’s forces during the 12-day conflict in June, but analysts say Tehran’s most critical military capability remains largely intact: its missile arsenal. Despite losses, Iran is believed to still possess around 2,000 medium-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israel, along with large numbers of shorter-range missiles that could strike U.S. bases in the Gulf and threaten ships operating near the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Iran maintains anti-ship cruise missiles, fast attack boats, and swarms of armed drones, giving it multiple ways to challenge U.S. forces and regional allies.

“Even weakened, Iran remains dangerous because of its missile force,” said Behnam Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

These concerns come as the United States reinforces its military presence in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and additional warplanes are moving into the region while President Trump considers possible military action against Iran following its violent suppression of mass protests and stalled nuclear negotiations. According to U.S. officials, Iran has warned it would retaliate against any strike, with leaders in Tehran saying they are prepared to respond immediately.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers that between 30,000 and 40,000 U.S. troops stationed across the region are within range of Iranian drones and short-range missiles. In past confrontations, Iran has targeted U.S. bases in Iraq and Qatar, while allied groups such as Yemen’s Houthis have attacked sites in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Israel’s June campaign destroyed many Iranian missile launchers and exposed weaknesses in Iran’s air defenses, but it also prompted Tehran to adapt. Iran has increasingly relied on longer-range missiles launched from deeper inside its territory and has adjusted its attack patterns to improve accuracy. Even with advanced missile defenses such as Patriot and THAAD systems in place, U.S. and Israeli officials acknowledge that a significant number of Iranian missiles would likely penetrate defenses.

That reality raises fears that any new U.S. strike could quickly escalate into a broader regional conflict. Iran has been reaching out diplomatically to neighboring countries, and Saudi Arabia has stated it will not allow its airspace or territory to be used for attacks against Iran. The United Arab Emirates has made a similar commitment.

Analysts warn that the consequences of a wider conflict could be severe, ranging from regional instability to disruptions in global trade if Iran were to mine or block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for the world’s oil supply.

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