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US Intelligence Warns of Potential Missile Strikes on Homeland as Threats Surge
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
US intelligence agencies have warned that adversarial states could potentially carry out missile strikes against the American homeland, according to the US intelligence community’s annual threat assessment released on March 18.
The report highlights growing concerns that countries, including China, Russia, and North Korea, are developing advanced weapons systems capable of targeting the United States domestically.
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Iran and Pakistan are also identified as potential contributors to the expanding threat landscape.
According to the assessment, the number of foreign missiles capable of reaching the United States could rise from around 3,000 today to more than 16,000 by 2035.
“China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan are conducting research and developing a wide range of new, advanced, and legacy missile delivery systems, including those capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional payloads, that can strike the homeland,” the report states.
The intelligence community also warned that both conventional and nuclear missile arsenals pose risks to US satellites. Notably, the report indicates that Russia is developing a new satellite designed to carry nuclear weapons as part of an anti-satellite capability.
The assessment further notes that China may be concerned that a proposed US missile defense initiative—referred to as the “Golden Dome” under President Donald Trump—could increase the likelihood of American intervention in a potential conflict over Taiwan. This dynamic, the report suggests, could push Beijing toward arms control discussions.
At the same time, US intelligence does not believe Chinese leader Xi Jinping has set a clear timeline for unifying Taiwan, stating that he is “not currently planning” an invasion. Chinese officials reportedly recognize that a maritime assault on the island would be highly complex and carry significant risks, particularly if the United States intervenes.
The report also addresses Iran, warning that Tehran could seek retaliation following the killing of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
“If the regime survives, Tehran will almost certainly seek revenge. In that case, Iran will rebuild its influence and remain a real threat to the interests of Israel and the United States,” the document states.
In addition to military threats, the report touches on challenges within Europe, noting that integration issues among immigrant populations have contributed to the radicalization of some youth. It also points to economic pressures, including rising public debt and weak growth, as factors that could limit Europe’s ability to expand security cooperation in the near term.
Earlier, US federal authorities warned law enforcement agencies in California about the possibility that Iran could attempt a drone attack targeting the US West Coast.
-72b63a4e0c8c475ad81fe3eed3f63729.jpeg "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
