As U.S. forces mass in the Middle East, Iran faces the threat of major strikes by the world's most powerful military, potentially targeting its leaders, military, nuclear sites and critical infrastructure. Iran has nowhere near the same capabilities and is even more vulnerable after last year's war launched by Israel and recent anti-government protests.

Iran's missile arsenal was heavily damaged during the 12-day conflict, with Israeli strikes targeting longer-range weapons and the U.S. hitting main nuclear sites. President Trump claimed these sites were "obliterated," though the extent of damage and subsequent rebuilding remains unclear. Iran continued striking Israel with missiles and drones until the fighting stopped.

Despite significant losses, Iran retains hundreds of missiles capable of hitting Israel and a much larger arsenal of shorter-range missiles that could target U.S. bases in Gulf countries. The country has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil trade, and warned that any U.S. attack would spark regional war. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has threatened to sink American warships, while officials say "all bases, facilities and assets of the hostile force in the region" would be legitimate targets.