Iran Strengthens Missile Forces and Prepares for Broader Conflict with US Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Iran is rapidly rebuilding its missile capabilities and expanding the Revolutionary Guards' influence within its military, preparing for a wider conflict despite a recent de-escalation agreement with the United States. According to Iranian and Western sources and regional intelligence cited by the Wall Street Journal on July 18, 2026, Tehran believes the main confrontation with the US has yet to begin, viewing the current understanding as a temporary pause before a larger offensive.

In parallel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reported increased clashes in recent weeks between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli troops near the Ali Taher ridge, as well as between IDF soldiers and Hamas operatives along the Gaza border. The IDF assesses that Hamas and Hezbollah are coordinating their activities with Iranian support to rebuild a hostile front aimed at intensifying pressure on Israel.

Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant announced plans for unprecedented economic sanctions against Iran, describing them as the most severe isolation measures ever imposed on a country. These sanctions will combine economic isolation with a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent any goods from entering or leaving Iranian ports. This announcement follows reports that former President Donald Trump adopted a "wait and see" strategy, allowing existing financial sanctions and maritime blockades to further damage Iran's economy rather than launching immediate new military strikes.