Despite suffering significant leadership losses from Israeli airstrikes, Iran retains a robust missile arsenal—including advanced systems—allowing it to maintain retaliatory attacks over an extended period, according to a former senior Israeli intelligence official.

The official spoke to NBC News on Thursday and described Tehran’s posture as one of “strategic patience,” cautioning against underestimating the country’s ability to respond.

“Iran has the resolve and the capability to continue and sustain attacks,” the source said, warning that talk of regime collapse in Iran should be approached with caution.

Missile Interceptions Falling

According to the same official, Israel’s missile defence systems intercepted just 65% of Iranian projectiles over the past 24 hours—a noticeable decline from nearly 90% the previous day.

Iran is reportedly deploying newer, faster missiles equipped with advanced navigation systems, reducing Israel’s response time from 10–11 minutes to as little as six or seven minutes. These systems have enabled Iran to launch more precise strikes, further challenging Israel’s air defenses.

Escalation Amid Nuclear Tensions

Since 13 June, Israel has carried out a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, as well as top military officials. The strikes prompted immediate Iranian retaliation, fueling fears of a broader regional escalation.

The United States has continued to pressure Iran to abandon its uranium enrichment activities, which Western powers view as a pathway to developing nuclear weapons. Tehran insists its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes.

Diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran, mediated by Oman and launched in April, were scheduled to resume last Sunday. However, the meeting was cancelled following Israel’s airstrikes, casting further doubt on prospects for de-escalation. 

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