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Iran using ceasefire as opportunity to dig out buried missiles, launchers - report

From Jerusalem Post · (35m ago) English Critical tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Iran is reportedly using the current ceasefire to unearth hidden missiles, munitions, and launchers, according to US officials.
  • The US believes Iran aims to rebuild its missile capabilities in anticipation of renewed conflict if negotiations fail.
  • US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated Iran cannot replace its existing arsenal, while other intelligence suggests Iran retains a significant portion of its military assets.

The Jerusalem Post reports on concerning intelligence indicating that Iran is exploiting the current ceasefire to reconstitute its military capabilities. According to NBC News, citing US officials, Iran is digging out buried missiles and launchers, with the US believing this is preparation for a potential resumption of hostilities should negotiations falter. This revelation directly contradicts any notion of a genuine de-escalation from Tehran and underscores the persistent threat Iran poses to regional stability.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has directly addressed Iran, stating, โ€œYou can move things around, but you canโ€™t actually rebuild.โ€ This assertion, while intended to project US intelligence and resolve, is tempered by other reports suggesting Iran has managed to preserve a substantial portion of its arsenal, including ballistic missiles, aircraft, and naval assets. This discrepancy highlights the complex and often opaque nature of intelligence gathering regarding Iran's military posture.

You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them.

โ€” Pete HegsethUS Secretary of Defense, addressing Iranian leadership.

From an Israeli perspective, this news is particularly alarming. While the US may be focused on diplomatic or strategic calculations, Israel lives under the constant threat of Iranian aggression. The idea that Iran is using a period of reduced tensions to rearm is deeply concerning. The report that Iran has maintained not only many of its ballistic missiles but also over half of its air force and naval assets is a stark reminder that the threat is far from diminished. This situation demands continued vigilance and a robust response from the international community, particularly from allies like the United States, to ensure that Iran's military buildup is effectively countered.

You only have what you have. You know that, and we know that. You can move things around, but you canโ€™t actually rebuild.

โ€” Pete HegsethUS Secretary of Defense, addressing Iranian leadership.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.