US Intelligence Assessments Show Iran Restored Access to Most Missile Sites Near Strait of Hormuz

Classified assessments from early this month show Iran has regained access to most of its missile sites, launchers and underground facilities. The findings contradict the Trump administration's public portrayal of a shattered Iranian military.

US intelligence agencies briefed policymakers that Iran restored operational access to 30 of the 33 missile sites it maintains along the Strait of Hormuz. Senior officials find this evidence most alarming, as it could threaten American warships and oil tankers transiting the narrow waterway.

People with knowledge of the assessments said they indicate that, to varying degrees depending on damage at each site, Iranians can use mobile launchers inside the sites to move missiles to other locations. In some cases, they can launch missiles directly from launchpads that are part of the facilities. Only three missile sites along the strait remain totally inaccessible.

The assessments appeared in a New York Times report summarized in John Ellis's "News Items" newsletter. The newsletter highlighted the story under the heading "MORNING GLORY: PRESIDENT TRUMP MUST REJECT A SECOND MUNICH AND HOLD FIRM AGAINST IRAN."

Iran's response to attacks on February 28 targeted not only Israel and US bases but also a dozen other countries' militaries and infrastructure. The regime regrouped after the strikes and pursued vengeance.

The author argues against negotiation with Iran's leadership and calls for sustained degradation of its capabilities and economic pressure. CIA Director John Ratcliffe leads the agency, which produced a similar assessment on Iran's nuclear program in 2007 that judged with high confidence Tehran halted its nuclear weapons program in fall 2003.

That 2007 National Intelligence Estimate drew criticism for missing Iran's nuclear ambitions and limiting President George W. Bush's options on Iran. No updated estimate followed Israel's theft of Iran's nuclear archive.

Hugh Hewitt, a Fox News contributor and host of "The Hugh Hewitt Show," wrote the column. He focuses on national security and argues President Trump should act on the intelligence by advancing plans for strikes on Iran's arsenal.