A Toothless Iran? Missile and Drone Strikes Show It Can Still Inflict Pain. - The New York Times

Iran's recent missile and drone strikes have demonstrated that despite international sanctions and military constraints, the country retains the capability to carry out significant attacks. The strikes underscore Tehran's willingness to use force as a political tool, even as its military infrastructure faces limitations from years of sanctions and regional isolation. This capability matters because it complicates diplomatic efforts and suggests Iran can still pose a credible threat to regional adversaries and U.S. interests in the Middle East. The attacks signal that Iran, despite economic and military pressures, maintains operational capacity in ballistic missiles and drone technology. The development reflects a strategic calculus by Iranian leadership that kinetic action remains a viable option for advancing its regional interests.