Public statements by the Trump administration claiming that Iran's military capabilities have been destroyed directly contradict internal intelligence reports from U.S. agencies. A classified U.S. intelligence assessment released earlier this month indicates that Iran has resumed operational use of most of its missile bases, launchers, and underground facilities. Of particular concern to senior U.S. officials is evidence suggesting Iran has restored combat readiness at 30 of the 33 missile sites it deployed along the Strait of Hormuz—facilities that could threaten U.S. warships and oil tankers passing through this narrow waterway. Only three sites remain non-operational. The assessment further notes that Iran still maintains approximately 70% of its mobile launchers nationwide and retains about 70% of its pre-war missile stockpile. This inventory includes ballistic missiles capable of striking other regional countries, as well as a smaller number of cruise missiles designed for shorter-range land or maritime targets. U.S. intelligence also confirms that Iran has regained operational capability at roughly 90% of its underground missile storage and launch facilities across the country. These intelligence findings sharply contrast with public assertions made over several months by high-ranking officials including President Trump and Admiral Hugues, who repeatedly told the American public that Iran’s military had been “destroyed” and no longer posed a threat.
According to multiple informed sources, Iraq and Pakistan have both reached agreements with Iran allowing the transportation of oil and liquefied natural gas through the Gulf region via the Strait of Hormuz. This underscores Iran’s growing control over energy transit through the strait. Although Iran initially sought to block vessels from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, its stance is now shifting—from outright blockade to strategic control. Iraq is one of the oil-producing nations most severely affected by the closure of the strait, as the majority of its crude exports typically pass through this route. Pakistan, meanwhile, heavily relies on Gulf energy imports and faces rising fuel costs amid ongoing mediation efforts in regional conflicts. Under these new agreements, two ultra-large crude carriers, each carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude oil, have already received approval and successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday. Additionally, two cargo ships loaded with liquefied natural gas from Qatar have also obtained Iranian authorization and are en route to Pakistan.
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865044426487050/
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