Three sources familiar with US intelligence reports have revealed that available data does not support President Donald Trump’s claims that Iran is close to developing a missile capable of striking US territory. The sources consider the assertion exaggerated, raising questions about one of the potential justifications for any military action against Tehran.
The New York Times was the first to report that US intelligence agencies believe Iran remains years away from possessing such missiles.
According to these sources, there have been no changes to a declassified 2025 assessment by the US Defense Intelligence Agency, which indicated that Iran may need until 2035 to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile ready for military use.
The sources further noted that even if Tehran receives technical assistance from its allies, it would require at least eight years to produce an operational missile system.
In his State of the Union address to Congress, Trump sought to justify to the American public the possibility of US attacks against Iran, claiming that Tehran was “working on developing missiles that will soon reach” the United States.
Source: Al-Manar English Website