"The Trump administration's public portrayal of a shattered Iranian military is sharply at odds with what U.S. intelligence agencies are telling policymakers behind closed doors, according to classified assessments from early this month that show Iran has regained access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities."
"Most alarming to some senior officials is evidence that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz, which could threaten American warships and oil tankers transiting the narrow waterway."
"People with knowledge of the assessments said they show-to varying degrees, depending on the level of damage incurred at the different sites-that the Iranians can use mobile launchers that are inside the sites to move missiles to other locations. In some cases they can launch missiles directly from launchpads that are part of the facilities."
"Only three of the missile sites along the strait remain totally inaccessible, according to the assessments. "Complete demolition" ain't what it used to be."
Classified assessments indicate the Trump administration’s public portrayal of a shattered Iranian military conflicts with intelligence shared with policymakers. The assessments say Iran has regained access to most missile sites, launchers, and underground facilities. Senior officials are especially concerned that Iran restored operational access to 30 of 33 missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz. The assessments indicate Iran can use mobile launchers inside sites to move missiles to other locations, and in some cases can launch missiles directly from launchpads at the facilities. Only three missile sites along the strait remain totally inaccessible. The text contrasts past expectations about war messaging with current claims.
#iran-missile-sites #strait-of-hormuz #us-intelligence-assessments #naval-and-oil-tanker-threats #military-readiness
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