Iran has unveiled a restored and upgraded missile arsenal at an underground base, part of a state-run news report highlighting systems damaged during June’s conflict with Israel that are now back in operation.
The broadcast offered a rare look inside the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) facilities, showing launchers still scarred by shrapnel from Israeli strikes and allegedly depicting missiles being fired at Israel during the 12-day war. It is the first public presentation of Iran’s missile capabilities since the conflict.
Newsweek has reached out to Iran’s Foreign Ministry for comment.
Why It Matters
The display underscores that the military and technological contest between Iran and Israel remains unresolved despite the June 24 ceasefire. Israeli airstrikes on Iran triggered missile and drone retaliation, marking one of their most direct clashes in years. U.S. forces also hit Iranian nuclear facilities in late June, slowing enrichment and intensifying Washington’s scrutiny of Iran’s missile and nuclear programs.
The IRGC’s presentation aimed to reassure domestic audiences and signal to the U.S. and Israel that its missile forces remain operational and increasingly resilient—highlighting the risk of broader regional escalation, energy disruptions, and renewed international concern over nuclear proliferation.
What To Know
According to state media, the unveiling is part of an IRGC Aerospace Force initiative to rebuild and enhance missile readiness following the 12-day war. The IRGC said the upgrades are intended to improve the resilience and technical performance of its medium-range missile systems.
The broadcast featured footage with dramatic music, showing a range of medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) on both new and repaired launchers. The display included versions from the Qadr and Emad liquid-fuel missile families, the Khaybar Shekan solid-fuel series, and the Fattah-1. One launcher still bore visible impact marks from Israeli strikes. The report included an interview with an IRGC official, who guided the reporter through the site while his face was deliberately blurred, highlighting operational security.
Footage from the broadcast has also circulated widely on social media, drawing international attention and discussion about Iran’s missile capabilities.
Strategic Background
Iran’s ballistic missile program remains central to its defense strategy. During the conflict with Israel, Iran launched hundreds of missiles, some of which penetrated Israeli defenses, demonstrating evolving capabilities. Officials say the program is for conventional deterrence, though Israel and others view it as a regional threat.
End of JCPOA
On Saturday, Iran announced it is no longer bound by the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which limited its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
“All provisions…including restrictions on the Iranian nuclear program…are considered terminated,” its foreign ministry said, while reaffirming a “commitment to diplomacy.”
The deal, signed by Iran, the U.S., China, Britain, France, Germany and Russia, has been largely inactive since 2018, when Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. and reinstated sanctions. Tehran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is intended solely for civilian purposes.
What Happens Next
The missile display reflects ongoing military posturing as both Iran and Israel assess the aftermath of the June conflict. With each side warning it will respond to future attacks, the ceasefire’s stability remains uncertain. At the same time, Iran’s nuclear program continues to advance, adding another layer of tension for Israel, the U.S., and other international actors monitoring Tehran’s capabilities.