U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed reports claiming the United States is facing a weapons shortage, insisting the country still has ample stockpiles of missiles and munitions, while warning that those responsible for leaking such information will be investigated.
His remarks come as both Trump and the Pentagon face growing scrutiny over the size of America’s weapons stockpiles, as the war with Iran enters its sixth month with peace negotiations making little progress.
Reports suggesting that U.S. weapons inventories may be declining have prompted Iran to assert that it is capable of confronting any military challenge using domestically produced weaponry.
Despite the extensive use of munitions during the military campaign dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” and subsequent strikes, the Trump administration has continued to maintain that America’s missile stockpiles remain strong.
CBS News reported that the United States had used a significant portion of its long-range missile inventory, as well as air defense missiles, citing two anonymous sources familiar with the matter.
The Washington Post also reported that Trump had privately expressed concern about the issue and questioned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding the state of the country’s weapons reserves.
Responding on his Truth Social platform, Trump said those responsible for leaking what he described as sensitive information were “being hunted” and called for them to receive lengthy prison sentences.
He also dismissed The Washington Post’s report as “fake news” and reiterated his confidence in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
According to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), by the end of July the United States was estimated to have between 759 and 827 Patriot missiles remaining—roughly one-third of its pre-war inventory. The think tank also estimated that the U.S. had used nearly 60% of its THAAD missile interceptors designed to defend against ballistic missile attacks.
Despite concerns over the remaining stockpiles, the U.S. administration continues to insist that the country retains sufficient weapons reserves while working to expand production.
Last month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requested an emergency budget of $87 billion from the U.S. Senate to pay military personnel and replenish weapons and equipment used during ongoing operations.
