The U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has only around 22% of its missile arsenal remaining, signaling what he described as a significant weakening of Tehran’s military capabilities after months of conflict and sustained military pressure.
Speaking amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Trump said U.S. and allied military operations had severely damaged Iran’s missile infrastructure, launch systems, and weapons production facilities. He argued that Iran’s ability to carry out large-scale missile attacks has been substantially reduced, although he acknowledged that the country still retains enough firepower to pose a threat in the region.
The remarks come as Washington and Tehran continue indirect negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and exploring the possibility of a broader peace arrangement. Trump has repeatedly stated that Iran must abandon any pursuit of nuclear weapons as part of a long-term settlement. Recent diplomatic contacts have reportedly focused on ceasefire arrangements, sanctions, maritime security, and Iran’s nuclear program.
While the U.S. administration has highlighted military gains, intelligence assessments have suggested that Iran still maintains a portion of its missile and drone capabilities. Earlier reports indicated that although a large segment of Iran’s arsenal had been damaged or destroyed, underground facilities and surviving launch systems continue to provide Tehran with a degree of operational capability.
The latest comments were made against the backdrop of renewed military incidents in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important shipping route for global energy supplies. In recent days, U.S. forces reported intercepting Iranian drones near the waterway, while Tehran accused American naval forces of provocative actions in the region.
Despite the continuing confrontation, both sides have shown interest in diplomatic engagement. Negotiators are still grappling with several unresolved issues, including Iran’s nuclear activities, sanctions relief, regional security arrangements, and the future of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Analysts note that even a reduced missile stockpile could allow Iran to maintain deterrence and conduct limited military operations. As negotiations continue, the balance between military pressure and diplomacy is expected to shape the next phase of relations between Washington and Tehran.
