CIA Director John Ratcliffe testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee that Iran was developing short- and midrange ballistic missiles at an 'alarming' rate, faster than U.S. defensive capabilities could match. This buildup continued while Iran negotiated with the United States and supported affiliated terrorist organizations. The comments came amid U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February.
During a Wednesday hearing, CIA Director John Ratcliffe explained the Trump administration's view of Iran as an imminent threat. Responding to Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ratcliffe confirmed Iran was 'continuing to develop' short- and midrange ballistic missiles 'at rates that were alarming.' He affirmed that Iran built offensive capabilities faster than the U.S. could develop defenses, even as negotiations occurred. Ratcliffe also verified Iran continued delivering resources to regional terrorist organizations affiliated with it. Rounds summarized that Iran persisted with 'nuclear intentions' and built missile systems to threaten neighbors during supposed diplomacy. Both agreed it was 'safer' to address the threat before full realization. Ratcliffe stated the U.S. acted partly due to Iran's 'alarming' weapons stockpiling pace, which could target Americans or allies. Separately on Wednesday, President Donald Trump questioned U.S. policing of the Strait of Hormuz, tweeting: 'I wonder what would happen if we “finished off” what’s left of the Iranian Terror State, and let the Countries that use it, we don’t, be responsible for the so called “Strait?” That would get some of our non-responsive “Allies” in gear, and fast!!!' European allies largely declined involvement. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said, 'We will not do so.' French President Emmanuel Macron called prior strikes 'outside the framework of international law' and stated France would 'never take part in operations to open or liberate the Strait of Hormuz.' The UK, Spain, Italy, and Greece also hesitated, while Poland and Baltic states offered support.
