US President Donald Trump has warned about Iran’s missile capabilities, but arms-control experts and previously reported US intelligence assessments have questioned claims that Tehran can soon strike the American mainland.
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — WEB DESK
US President Donald Trump has renewed warnings about Iran’s missile capabilities, claiming that Iranian weapons could threaten European countries and American cities. However, experts have questioned whether Iran currently possesses missiles capable of reaching the continental United States.
Trump has repeatedly cited Iran’s missile programme as a security concern during public remarks about the conflict with Tehran. In an October rally, he referred to the possibility of Iranian attacks on US cities, including Los Angeles and San Diego. The White House later said his comments were intended to explain the administration’s stated aim of preventing Iran from developing such a capability.
The claims have drawn scrutiny because the range of Iran’s existing missiles differs significantly from the distance required to strike the US mainland. Iran possesses ballistic missiles capable of reaching targets across parts of the Middle East, while some of its systems may threaten parts of Europe. Reaching the continental United States would require a much longer-range capability.
A US Defense Intelligence Agency assessment published in 2025 said Iran could potentially develop a militarily viable intercontinental ballistic missile by 2035 if it chose to pursue that path. Reporting by Reuters in February 2026 said US intelligence assessments did not support the claim that Iran would soon have a missile capable of striking the United States.
Developing an operational intercontinental ballistic missile involves substantial technical challenges, including propulsion, guidance and a warhead capable of surviving re-entry into the atmosphere. Iran’s space-launch programme is relevant to assessments of its potential long-range capabilities, but it does not by itself establish that the country has a functioning missile able to strike American cities.
The debate over Iran’s missile range comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran. The issue remains central to discussions about regional security, deterrence and the justification for US policy towards Iran.
Trump’s statements reflect the administration’s assessment of the threat, while published intelligence assessments and expert analysis indicate that the timeline for an Iranian missile capable of reaching the US mainland remains uncertain and may be years away.
