As Iran ramps up missile production, is it readying for war with Israel?
Amid its diminishing regional influence, Iran's Revolutionary Guards is setting up new missile centers to project power, aiming to deter Israeli strikes while risking further regional escalation.
As tensions heighten between Iran and Israel, Tehran is doubling down on producing missiles, going to lengths to boost its defenses in preparation for what could be an existential confrontation.
On Friday, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps chief Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami announced plans to unveil "missile and drone cities." According to a report by Tasnim News Agency, Salami stated that the sites will become operational "soon" to demonstrate Iran's strategic depth and growing military might.
"We are building unique missiles in the aerospace unit," he said, addressing a gathering in the south-western city of Abadan. "The world will witness … Iran's immense and unparalleled power." The hard-line commander claimed that the Islamic Republic's military advancements have reached "extraordinary levels," leaving no gaps in its defense capabilities.
The remarks are in line with broader campaign by Iranian authorities to project confidence in the face of external threats, most notably the growing escalation with Israel since Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.
