Iran continues to retain a “significant” portion of its missile and drone capabilities despite weeks of US and Israeli strikes, CNN reported, citing recent US intelligence assessments. The findings suggest that while Tehran’s military has been degraded, it remains far from neutralised.
Sources familiar with the intelligence told CNN that roughly half of Iran’s missile launchers remain intact. Thousands of one-way attack drones are also still operational, allowing Iran to maintain the ability to carry out sustained attacks across the region.
Officials added, according to CNN, that some launch systems may have been buried underground or rendered inaccessible rather than destroyed, complicating efforts to accurately assess the damage.
Gap with Donald Trump’s claims
The intelligence assessment contrasts with public remarks by US President Donald Trump, who has said Iran’s military has been “decimated” and its missile and drone capabilities “dramatically curtailed.”
However, US intelligence estimates cited by The Daily Star indicate a more nuanced picture. Officials can confirm only about one-third of Iran’s missile arsenal has been destroyed, while others may be damaged or hidden in underground facilities.
Analysts say the discrepancy shows the difficulty of verifying battlefield outcomes, particularly given Iran’s reliance on tunnels and mobile launch platforms.
Also Read: ‘False and baseless’: Iran rejects Trump’s ceasefire claim as war escalates
Strikes have reduced threats
US officials maintain that the military campaign has significantly degraded Iran’s capabilities. Thousands of targets have been struck, key infrastructure has been damaged, and the frequency of Iranian attacks has declined.
According to Pentagon officials, missile and drone launches have dropped sharply since the start of the conflict.
Even so, Iran continues intermittent strikes targeting US forces, Israel, and regional allies.
Experts warn that even a reduced arsenal can pose a serious threat, particularly in strategic areas like the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
Also Read: UAE ‘willing to join’ fight, help US, allies force open Strait of Hormuz: Report
Underground networks complicate operations
A major challenge for US and Israeli forces has been Iran’s ability to conceal weapons underground. Intelligence assessments cited by CNN indicate that many systems have been moved into tunnels and caves, allowing them to survive repeated strikes.
Experts say this underground infrastructure, combined with mobile launch systems, enables Iran to preserve and redeploy its arsenal despite sustained attacks.
