US, Israel Strike Iranian Missile Sites; Naval Blockade Stops Trade

US and Israeli military operations have significantly degraded Iran’s missile and defense infrastructure, according to Pentagon officials and recent statements by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Operation Epic Fury targeted more than 13,000 sites, destroying roughly 80% of Iran’s air defense systems and about 90% of its weapons factories.

The US Navy has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports since earlier this week, forcing at least 14 vessels to turn back and halting nearly all maritime trade linked to Iran.

Satellite imagery shows Iran excavating buried missiles and launchers at bases hit during the first five weeks of Operation Epic Fury. US intelligence confirms much of Iran’s missile arsenal has been buried underground.

He added, "You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them," and noted Iran’s defense industry has been severely weakened with no capacity to replenish offensive or defensive capabilities. The US and Israel have bombarded Iran’s missile launchers, storage facilities, and defense industrial base, destroying 450 ballistic missile storage sites and severely weakening Iran’s defense industrial capacity.

Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated the US remains ready to resume combat operations if the ceasefire breaks down or talks fail. Additionally, the US has deployed naval forces for mine-clearing in the Strait of Hormuz and to enforce the blockade.

“You have no defense industry, no ability to replenish your offensive or defensive capabilities.”

“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.”