America spent months blasting Iranian launchers then discovered the shield that stops the return fire is almost empty.
Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen Dan Caine told Trump that Middle East interceptor stockpiles are dangerously low.
This forced a temporary pause on expanded operations against Iran.
CSIS estimates show at least 1,500 Patriot interceptors fired since the conflict started.
Fewer than 1,000 remain according to updated analysis.
Rebuilding to pre war levels will take three years or more at current production rates.
No wonder we 🌮’d
When you don’t have enough missiles to protect yourself it’s time to make a deal https://t.co/jWSKCYdB3D
— QE Infinity (@StealthQE4) July 26, 2026
Yep, we're out of missiles. https://t.co/c3Swvz2T6f
— Rick J (@rickjeff78) July 26, 2026
Wall Street Journal reporting on the pause and Trump statement via Israel National News: https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/430796
New York Times details on Caine warning via Times of Israel: https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/interceptor-shortages-main-concern-in-deliberations-before-trump-held-off-on-escalating-iran-campaign-nyt/