Iran Affirms Uninterrupted Missile Production Amid Intensifying Middle East Conflict!

Reported by Mustapha Omolabake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has asserted that the nation’s missile production capabilities remain fully operational despite ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, countering international claims of supply shortages. The statement, issued by a senior military spokesperson, highlights Tehran’s determination to maintain its defence industrial base amid increasing regional tensions and foreign military pressure.

“Our missile industry deserves a perfect score in 2025 and there is no concern in this regard,” Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for the IRGC’s Khatam al‑Anbiya Central Headquarters, stated. Speaking through state-affiliated media channels, Zolfaghari emphasised that missile manufacturing continues under wartime conditions, and warned of “surprises” and “more complex operations ahead,” signalling Tehran’s intent to preserve its strategic deterrence capabilities.

The declaration comes amid intensified hostilities following coordinated U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory in late February 2026, which targeted military infrastructure, energy installations, and missile production sites. In retaliation, Iranian forces have launched a series of counterstrikes, deploying ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial systems against strategic targets in Israel, Gulf states, and U.S. military positions across the region.

Context of the Conflict
The current escalation began after the February 28 strikes reportedly killed high-ranking Iranian commanders, drawing in multiple regional actors and further destabilising global energy markets. Iranian missile strikes have reportedly damaged facilities in Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, while Israel has conducted counter‑operations deep into Iranian territory, including Tehran and key gas fields.

Western governments, particularly the United States, have publicly questioned Tehran’s claims of sustained production. U.S. military assessments indicate that some missile infrastructure may have been impacted by air campaigns. However, Iranian officials maintain that the industrial network, including both underground and dispersed facilities, is resilient, capable of replenishing stockpiles even under sustained bombardment.

Strategic Role of Missile Production
Iran’s missile program has long been a cornerstone of its defence strategy, enhancing its regional posture. The programme encompasses short-range systems such as the Zolfaghar and Fateh‑110 series, as well as medium-range designs like the Qassem Bassir, unveiled in 2025. These systems offer Tehran operational flexibility, ease of domestic production, and a robust tool for strategic signalling to regional adversaries.

Analysts highlight that decades of sanctions and a focus on localising military production have allowed Iran to develop a modular, dispersed defence manufacturing network. This approach, combining state-controlled and quasi-commercial entities, provides resilience against targeted air strikes and supply chain disruptions.

Tehran’s Strategic Messaging
Zolfaghari’s remarks serve a dual purpose: reassuring domestic audiences of Iran’s military resilience and sending a message to international observers and adversaries that the country can endure a protracted conflict. By emphasizing “no concern” over missile stockpiles, the IRGC reinforces Tehran’s narrative of strength and preparedness.

This assertion directly counters claims from Israeli officials, who have stated that Iran’s missile production and nuclear enrichment capabilities have been severely disrupted. Iran, however, continues to deny these reports, maintaining a posture of operational readiness.

Regional and Global Implications
Iran’s insistence on uninterrupted missile production carries significant implications for Middle Eastern stability and global energy security. Attacks targeting oil and gas infrastructure have heightened risks of escalation, compelling the United States, European nations, and Gulf states to closely monitor developments while weighing diplomatic and military options to contain the conflict.

As hostilities persist, the ability of Iran to maintain and deploy its missile arsenal will remain a critical indicator of the conflict’s trajectory. Analysts and policymakers alike will be closely assessing Tehran’s industrial resilience to gauge the broader implications for regional security.

Sources:
Reuters, “Israel, Iran launch more attacks as crisis deepens” (March 19, 2026)

The Guardian, “Middle East crisis live: Israel strikes Tehran” (March 20, 2026)

Wall Street Journal, “Iran Denies That Strikes Have Hampered Ability to Make Missiles” (March 20, 2026)

Mustapha Labake Omowumi

Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.

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