US Defense Secretary Vance Consulted on Iran Stance Amid Missile Shortages
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, American defense officials have indicated that a substantial depletion of interceptor missiles for the Patriot and THAAD systems was a primary factor influencing President Donald Trump‘s decision to postpone military action against Iran. This strategic recalculation reportedly occurred after extensive discussions and lobbying efforts by key figures within the administration.
Al Mayadeen’s correspondent in the United States reported that the dwindling supply of missiles for American air defense systems was a critical element in President Trump’s decision-making process, leading to the deferral of an offensive against Iran. This move by Trump, who had previously signaled an intention to attack, marks another instance of his administration reassessing its posture towards Tehran.
The correspondent further elaborated that this decision followed concerted efforts by figures such as the US Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who reportedly sought to dissuade Trump from proceeding with the strike. President Trump himself confirmed the cancellation of the attack, stating his agreement to call it off hours after initial reports of the planned operation emerged.
These pronouncements from the White House came shortly after Axios reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had voiced concerns to President Trump during a telephone conversation regarding Washington’s plans for extensive strikes against Iran. The report cited an informed source privy to the call, indicating that bin Salman urged Trump to avoid escalating tensions and to refrain from launching broad military operations against Iran.
Meanwhile, Fox News, citing assessments from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), reported a significant drawdown in US interceptor missile inventories. According to these estimates, the number of THAAD interceptor missiles decreased from approximately 452 before recent operations to under 278. Similarly, Patriot interceptor missile reserves saw a substantial reduction, falling from around 2300 units before the conflict to less than 827.
