May 2 — President Donald Trump said the United States would like to eliminate the remaining portion of Iran’s missile production capacity, stating that while most of the country’s capabilities have been destroyed, a residual share still exists.
The comments came during a press exchange on May 2, when Trump was asked about his earlier assessment that approximately 85% of Iran’s missile-making capabilities had already been eliminated.
“Correct,” Trump said when asked to confirm the figure.
Reporters then followed up by asking whether the remaining capacity was significant and whether the United States planned to eliminate it entirely.
“Well, I’d like to eliminate it. Yeah, I’d like to. It’ll be a start for them to build up again. And yeah, I would like to eliminate it,” Trump said.
The exchange highlighted the administration’s continued focus on Iran’s missile production infrastructure following extensive strikes that U.S. officials say have severely degraded the country’s defense-industrial base.
Joint U.S.-Israeli military operations have destroyed a majority of Iran’s missile production facilities, with some estimates placing the damage at roughly 85% of overall capability.
Assessments describe widespread destruction of production sites, launch systems, and related infrastructure, including damage to large portions of Iran’s defense manufacturing network.
At the same time, other intelligence estimates have suggested Iran may still retain a significant number of ballistic missiles and launchers, with portions of its arsenal believed to be concealed in hardened or underground facilities.
Despite differing assessments, the administration has maintained that Iran’s missile capability has been substantially reduced compared to pre-conflict levels.
Trump’s remarks indicated that the remaining 15% is still viewed as strategically important, particularly because it could allow Iran to rebuild its production capacity over time.
The comments also come amid ongoing U.S. Central Command operations targeting Iranian military infrastructure, including missile and drone facilities, as part of a broader campaign to limit Tehran’s regional capabilities.
Officials have described the overall objective of these operations as preventing Iran from regenerating its missile program and maintaining long-term deterrence.
Trump’s statement underscores that the issue remains unresolved from the administration’s perspective, with the remaining capacity viewed as a potential foundation for future rebuilding efforts.
As a result, the president’s comments suggest continued interest in further action aimed at fully dismantling Iran’s missile production ability.