Key facts
- Iran is using construction equipment to reopen missile tunnels and repair launch sites.
- Satellite images show craters from US and Israeli strikes have been filled and repaved.
- President Trump estimates Iran has 21%-22% of its missiles remaining.
- CIA estimates suggest Iran still holds about 70% of its missiles and 75% of launchers.
- The effectiveness of US strikes is questioned due to lack of sustained action and clear strategic aims.
Iran is reportedly restoring missile tunnels that were struck by US and Israeli forces. Evidence suggests the use of basic construction equipment to reopen subterranean tunnels and repair launch sites, with satellite images indicating that craters from previous strikes have been filled and roads repaved. President Trump has estimated that Iran has approximately 21%-22% of its missiles remaining, a figure that contrasts with CIA estimates cited by the Washington Post, which suggest Iran still holds about 70% of its missiles and 75% of its missile launchers. Sam Lair, a research associate at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, noted that the launchers could be rearmed with the remaining missile stockpile. He also commented on the limits of US firepower, suggesting that tactical successes without clear strategic war aims could lead to strategic failure. The restoration efforts come amid ongoing tensions and previous military actions targeting Iran's defense capabilities.