The Pentagon disclosed Thursday that Iran is actively excavating its remaining missile launchers and storage sites, a move closely monitored by US intelligence and naval forces. This development comes as the US Navy enforces a stringent blockade on Iranian ports, crippling Tehran's maritime trade and economy.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed the situation during a press briefing, stating, 'We know what military assets you are moving and where you are moving them to. You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them.' Hegseth emphasized that Iran's defense industrial capacity has been severely degraded, leaving Tehran unable to replenish its offensive or defensive capabilities.
Operation Epic Fury's Impact
Operation Epic Fury, a joint US-Israel campaign, targeted over 13,000 Iranian military assets, including missile storage facilities, launchers, and weaponry factories. Pentagon assessments indicate that approximately 80% of Iran’s air defense systems and 90% of its defense industrial base have been destroyed. Satellite imagery confirms excavation efforts at previously bombed missile sites, though the exact number of remaining missiles remains unclear.
'In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, US forces have completely halted all economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea,' stated Adm. Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command.
The US blockade has already forced at least 14 vessels to turn around, effectively strangling Iran’s maritime trade, which accounts for 90% of its economy. While commercial traffic unrelated to Iran is permitted, Navy ships are intercepting or redirecting vessels linked to Iranian trade.
Ceasefire and Negotiations
Negotiations between Washington and Tehran, initiated earlier this month, have stalled over disagreements regarding Iran’s nuclear program. US officials, including Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have warned that the US remains prepared to resume combat operations should Iran violate the ceasefire or negotiations collapse.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with US naval forces deployed for mine-clearing and blockade enforcement. Despite Iran’s warnings of retaliation, CENTCOM has maintained its stance that the restrictions on maritime traffic are lawful and necessary.