By Shamim Hossain | Press Edition
Dhaka, Bangladesh:
As the conflict between the US-Israeli coalition and Iran nears its one-month mark, US intelligence officials have revealed a sobering assessment: Washington can only confirm the destruction of approximately one-third of Iran’s vast missile stockpile.
According to five sources familiar with the classified briefings, while another third of the arsenal is unaccounted for—potentially damaged or buried under collapsed tunnels and bunkers—a significant portion remains a potent threat. Similar data suggests that only about one-third of Iran's drone capabilities have been confirmed destroyed so far.
This internal assessment stands in stark contrast to President Donald Trump’s recent televised remarks, where he claimed Iran has "very few rockets left." However, even Trump acknowledged the persistent danger during a cabinet meeting on Thursday, stating, "The problem with the Strait [of Hormuz] is... even if 99% is destroyed, that remaining 1% is enough to strike a billion-dollar ship."
Key Military Developments:
Casualties at Sea: US Central Command (CENTCOM) claims to have neutralized 92% of Iran's large naval vessels.
Strike Magnitude: Since "Operation Epic Fury" began on February 28, the US has struck over 10,000 military targets across Iran.
Strategic Focus: The campaign aims not only at existing stockpiles but also at the industrial infrastructure required to manufacture missiles and drones.
Despite the massive bombardment, critics like Democratic Representative Seth Moulton, a four-time Iraq War veteran, warn against underestimating Tehran. "If Iran is smart, they are holding back some capabilities. They aren't using everything at once; they are waiting for an opportunity," Moulton told Reuters.
As President Trump considers further escalation, including troop deployments along the Iranian coast near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the resilience of Iran’s remaining munitions continues to weigh heavily on US strategic planning.