US Depletes 80% of THAAD Missile Stockpile, Influencing Trump’s Iran Strike Decision

According to US government and military sources cited by CNN, the United States has used up approximately 80% of its THAAD missile interceptors since the outbreak of conflict with Iran, a significantly higher depletion than previously estimated. The report also notes that at least half of the Patriot missile interceptors have been expended during the fighting. The US military’s stock of long-range precision ground-to-ground missiles has similarly been nearly exhausted, raising concerns about readiness for future conflicts.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that before the conflict, the US possessed about 2,200 Patriot interceptors and 452 THAAD interceptors. The sharp reduction in these missile defense systems has been a critical factor in recent discussions held by President Donald Trump. Intelligence assessments regarding the potential consequences of striking Iran’s strategic infrastructure, including energy facilities, combined with pressure from Gulf states worried about their own defense capabilities, contributed to the decision to cancel a planned large-scale attack on Iran.

Gulf countries reportedly warned Washington that further escalation with Iran could compromise the US’s ability to protect them due to the diminished missile defense inventory. Despite these concerns, Israeli security officials emphasize that Israel’s missile defense and military stockpiles remain sufficient to continue protecting the country and to conduct additional military operations against Iran if necessary.