NYT Reports U.S. Intelligence Assessment: "Iran's Missile Capabilities Significantly Restored"

Citing Classified Intelligence Assessments
"Iran Regains Operational Access
to 30 of 33 Missile Bases Around the Strait of Hormuz"

Contrary to the Trump Administration's claims that the Iranian military had been virtually destroyed, it has been revealed that a significant portion of Iran’s missile capabilities has actually been restored.

The New York Times (NYT) reported on the 12th (local time), citing classified assessments from U.S. intelligence agencies, that Iran has regained operational access to 30 out of 33 missile bases around the Strait of Hormuz. Only three bases remain completely inaccessible.

According to the assessment, Iran still possesses about 70% of its nationwide mobile missile launchers and about 70% of its pre-war missile stockpiles. This includes both ballistic and cruise missiles. Approximately 90% of Iran's underground missile storage and launch facilities are rated as 'partially or fully operational.'

This intelligence assessment indicates that Iran still maintains substantial military capabilities, including those around the Strait of Hormuz, the outlet noted. Should Iran utilize missile bases near the strait, U.S. warships and oil tankers in the vicinity could be exposed to potential threats. The U.S. Central Command stated last week via the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that more than 20 U.S. warships are currently conducting blockade operations against Iran.

It is also analyzed that the burden on the United States has increased. During the war with Iran, the U.S. military expended large quantities of key munitions, such as Tomahawk, Patriot, and long-range cruise missiles. The usage of Patriot interceptor missiles is estimated to exceed two years’ worth of production based on 2025 output.

The costs incurred so far are also substantial. According to testimony before Congress by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Trump Administration’s expenditure on the war with Iran from February 28 to May 12 amounts to 29 billion dollars (approximately 43 trillion won) over a 10-week period. At a hearing on April 29, the Department of Defense had estimated the cost at 25 billion dollars, but the figure has since increased by 4 billion dollars (about 6 trillion won).

Olivia Wales, a White House press staffer, refuted the NYT report, stating, "Anyone who thinks Iran has rebuilt its military is either delusional or a spokesperson for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)." She also cited a post by President Trump, emphasizing that "claiming the Iranian military is holding up well is effectively an act of treason." Pentagon chief spokesperson Shawn Parnell stated, "The U.S. military has maintained overwhelming power capable of protecting the nation and national interests and has conducted successful operations as a result."