U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz has attributed the decline in U.S. military stockpiles to the Biden administration, while asserting that there are sufficient weapons for operations against Iran.
On July 26, Waltz appeared on NBC's "Meet the Press" and stated, "Considering the amount of support provided to Ukraine over the past 4-5 years, we need to take a step back and assess the situation," adding that many weapons stockpiles have been depleted.
Waltz claimed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth inherited a situation of already diminished weapons from the Biden administration, noting that support for Ukraine and airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen have contributed to the reduction in stockpiles.
However, he dismissed concerns that the shortage of weapons is impacting current military operations against Iran. "Let me be clear," Waltz emphasized, "based on multiple sources, the U.S. military has everything it needs to conduct this operation effectively."
Earlier, NBC News reported that U.S. military commanders are selectively choosing which targets to intercept among missiles and explosive-laden drones launched by Iran to conserve interceptor weapon stockpiles.
Military experts have analyzed that even if Congress approves additional funding, it could take over four years for the U.S. to replenish depleted weapon stockpiles.
Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Cain recently stated, "If the government and Congress do not provide the necessary budget support to the Department of Defense, we will not be able to secure weapons," adding that it will become increasingly difficult to share risks between the federal government and the private sector.
On July 22, House Republicans approved a budget framework of $95 billion (approximately 139 trillion won) that includes increased support for the Department of Defense. However, further procedures in the House are required, and the Senate's approval remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has halted airstrikes against Iran, reportedly influenced by the shortage of U.S. missile stockpiles.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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