Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States, demanding the immediate cessation of the US naval blockade to avoid potential risks and casualties for American vessels and forces. This warning comes in response to an ultimatum from US President Donald Trump, who urged the Tehran government to agree to end the conflict.
The warning was delivered by senior Tehran military adviser Mohsen Rezaei following reports that US forces have nearly depleted their supply of long-range weapons after engaging in over 13,000 strikes across Iran during the past five months. The depletion of weapons, including Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), crucial for stand-off attacks, has raised concerns about the US military’s capability to sustain its operations.
There are claims that the US has resorted to repurposing weapons from various bases worldwide to compensate for the dwindling arsenal, leading to a reduction in US firepower globally. The cost of replenishing these weapons, some priced at up to £1 million each, poses a challenge to the US military’s ability to sustain a prolonged conflict. Additionally, reports indicate a shortage of defensive weapons, such as Patriot missiles, in the Gulf States, further complicating the situation.
Despite Trump’s aggressive rhetoric and threats of a major attack on Iran, recent developments suggest a significant increase in US military activity in the Middle East. Efforts to resolve the US-Iran conflict are reportedly progressing, with Qatar’s Foreign Ministry hinting at a draft agreement in circulation. However, direct talks between Washington and Tehran have not yet materialized, despite Trump’s claims of ongoing negotiations.
In response to allegations of a shortage in missile stockpiles, the White House released a statement from Trump refuting the claims and asserting the US’s superior munitions capabilities. The statement emphasized the country’s robust defense industry and ongoing efforts to expand munitions production to address any potential shortages.
