Iran has resumed production of ballistic missiles at underground sites, according to reports from U.S. and Middle Eastern officials on Thursday, Sept. 10. The activity involves assembling liquid- and solid-propellant missiles using stockpiled components in more limited quantities than before the conflict. These reports come despite past statements from the Trump administration claiming that Tehran’s military capabilities had been destroyed.
The reported resumption of assembly is centered in several underground locations, including the Khojir missile facility in southeastern Iran. A U.S. naval blockade has prevented the importation of fuel ingredients and other components, leading Iran to rely on existing parts. Analysts noted that Iran has also been digging out openings of underground bases that were targeted by U.S. and Israeli strikes in March and April.
Defense Department spokesperson Sean Parnell told The Wall Street Journal that the U.S. has destroyed up to 90% of Iran’s drone, ballistic missile, and naval industrial base. However, Tal Inbar, a senior analyst at the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance, estimated that Iran likely still possesses thousands of ballistic missiles. Iranian officials told state-run Fars News Agency on Thursday that new defense developments would be revealed soon, describing current knowledge as only the "tip of this iceberg."
The reported rebuilding affects U.S. servicemembers stationed in the Middle East and regional allies who remain within range of Iranian weaponry. Military analysts identified the Kheibar Shekan medium-range system as a weapon likely used in an attack on the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan that resulted in the deaths of three U.S. servicemembers.
The conflict has also impacted global energy markets. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, which prevents approximately 20% of the world's oil supply from being exported from the region. This closure has caused gas prices to rise, contributing to the conflict's unpopularity among the American public as it enters its sixth month.
Looking ahead, the status of the conflict remains tied to the upcoming U.S. midterm elections. President Trump stated on Wednesday, Sept. 9, that the conflict could end "immediately" after the elections, though he later acknowledged that a resolution might not occur before then. While a negotiation is possible, the president indicated the administration is not currently pursuing one. Iranian officials have pledged further defense developments, while a White House official stated the U.S. is monitoring Iranian movements and will not allow the regime to acquire a nuclear weapon.