US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran is working to develop missiles capable of striking the United States, escalating tensions as Washington and Tehran continue sensitive negotiations. Speaking during his State of the Union address, Trump said Iran already possesses missiles that can threaten Europe and US bases overseas and is now advancing toward longer-range capabilities.
The remarks come as both countries engage in high-stakes talks over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Trump reiterated that he prefers diplomacy but remains prepared to use military force if negotiations fail. Meanwhile, US intelligence assessments present a more cautious outlook. In 2025, the Defense Intelligence Agency stated that Iran could potentially develop a militarily viable intercontinental ballistic missile by 2035 if Tehran chooses to pursue that path.
Currently, Iran maintains short- and medium-range ballistic missiles with ranges of up to about 1,850 miles, according to the Congressional Research Service. By comparison, the continental United States lies more than 6,000 miles from Iran’s western border.
Military pressure and diplomatic efforts continue
At the same time, Washington has pushed for strict limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment, its ballistic missile program, and its regional activities—demands Tehran has consistently rejected. Iranian officials continue to deny any pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Last year, Trump ordered strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities and later claimed the attacks had “obliterated” key components of Tehran’s atomic program. However, he now alleges Iran is attempting to rebuild.
In addition, the United States has reinforced its military presence in the Middle East, deploying two aircraft carriers and multiple air and naval assets. Despite the show of force, Trump emphasized that diplomacy remains his preferred path as talks with Iran are scheduled to continue Thursday.
