Iran ‘digging out missiles’ after strikes, US fears renewed attacks: Report

3 min read Updated: May 1, 2026 08:26 PM IST Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, following the joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. Alongside the closure, Iran launched retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli bases across the Middle East. (AP Photo) In the latest developments, US officials believe that Iran is attempting to rebuild its drone and missile capabilities. The renewed activity has raised concerns in Washington about the possibility of Iran resuming attacks across the Middle East if US President Donald Trump decides to restart military operations , according to a report by NBC News. The report, citing US officials and two other sources familiar with the matter, said the Iranian regime had concealed missiles and other munitions from recent joint US-Israeli airstrikes. On April 30, Trump was scheduled to meet his national security team to review next steps regarding potential military action. The discussions, involving Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, were expected to focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and exploring options to eliminate Iran’s nuclear material. No final decision has been made, and Trump is yet to confirm the course of action. The closure of Strait of Hormuz Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, following the joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. Alongside the closure, Iran launched retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli bases across the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil transit route, and its closure triggered a surge in oil prices around the world. A two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran came into effect on April 8 after talks held in Islamabad under Pakistan’s mediation. Iran initially rejected the draft proposal and later presented a 10-point plan for a peace agreement. Story continues below this ad Despite the ceasefire coming into effect, both sides were accused of violating the agreement. After the truce expired, US President Trump extended it, seeking a formal proposal from Iran at Pakistan’s request. Amid these developments, US officials said that on April 22, Trump gave Iran three to five days to engage in negotiations after resolving internal government differences, warning that military action could resume if talks did not progress. Pete Hegseth’s comments on Iranian movements Following the reports of Iranian activities, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on April 16 at the Pentagon that Washington was closely tracking Iran’s military movements. “We know what military assets you are moving and where you are moving them to,” Pete Hegseth said. Story continues below this ad Trump’s China visit President Trump is scheduled to visit China in mid-May, where he is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. China has, on several occasions, faced allegations of supplying weapons and military support to Iran. The White House said the meeting had previously been postponed due to the Iran conflict but is now being treated as a priority, with no further delays expected. The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read More Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram © IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd Tags: ballistic missiles donald trump Iran nuclear Iran US tension Iran War missiles