Iran Claims Missile Superiority Amid Israeli Concerns Over Ballistic Production
In a statement reflecting ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, Major General Abu Fazl Shakarji, the official spokesperson for the Iranian armed forces, declared that Tehran's defense, missile, and drone capabilities have "shifted the initiative away from the enemy." This announcement was made during a visit by cultural officials to an exhibition organized by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.
Shakarji, who serves as the deputy chief for cultural affairs and hybrid warfare, further noted, according to the official news agency Fars, that "all displayed equipment is entirely domestically produced, resulting from the efforts of scientists and the aerospace and defense ministries."
He emphasized that the Iranian military has "rapidly accelerated its efforts to strengthen this missile capability," stating that the forces have "enhanced their capabilities after identifying and addressing weaknesses," thus being better prepared for any potential confrontation with Israel.
Conversely, Israeli media reported concerns regarding Iran's swift return to military strength. An Israeli army representative informed a closed session of the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Security Committee that Iran has resumed ballistic missile production "at a rapid pace." This development follows a brief conflict between the two nations in June 2025, as reported by Yedioth Ahronoth.
It is noteworthy that during this conflict, Israel conducted airstrikes on missile storage and production facilities within Iran, as well as on nuclear sites, resulting in the deaths of numerous military leaders and nuclear scientists. The Israeli government has publicly committed to preventing Tehran from regaining its military and nuclear capabilities, emphasizing that the confrontation remains unresolved, a sentiment echoed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In a related context, several Western diplomats and international observers have warned of a high likelihood of renewed direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran, given the mutual rhetoric and military escalation on both sides.
