Pakistan's Missile Ambitions Pose Direct Threat to US Homeland, Intelligence Chief Warns
In a stark revelation at a Senate Intelligence hearing on worldwide threats, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard highlighted that Pakistan's ongoing missile development programs could potentially include intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) with the range to strike the United States. This assessment underscores a significant escalation in global security concerns, as Pakistan joins a list of state actors actively enhancing their strategic capabilities.
Expanding Missile Threats from Multiple Nations
Gabbard emphasized that the intelligence community evaluates threats to the US homeland as broadening in scope, with state actors like Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan researching and developing advanced missile delivery systems. These systems, capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional payloads, are designed to put American soil within their operational range. She noted that the collective number of missiles threatening the US is projected to surge from over 3,000 currently to more than 16,000 by 2035, marking a dramatic increase in potential risks.
China and Russia are identified as the most persistent and active threats, with both nations investing heavily in research and development to create delivery systems that can penetrate or bypass US missile defenses. Meanwhile, North Korea's existing ICBMs already have the capability to reach US territory, and the regime is committed to expanding its nuclear arsenal, partly funded through sophisticated cyber operations, including cryptocurrency heists that stole an estimated $2 billion in 2025 alone.
Specific Concerns Over Pakistan and Iran
Regarding Pakistan, Gabbard stated that its long-range ballistic missile development might evolve into ICBMs with homeland-striking range, adding a new dimension to regional and global security dynamics. For Iran, the intelligence community assesses that the country has previously demonstrated space launch and other technologies that could be repurposed to develop a militarily viable ICBM before 2035, should Tehran decide to pursue such a capability aggressively.
"The United States secure nuclear deterrent continues to ensure safety in the homeland against strategic threats," Gabbard reassured, but she stressed the growing complexity of kinetic and cyber warfare from these state actors. The hearing aimed to address these evolving challenges and the need for robust defense strategies to counter the expanding missile threats.
Broader Implications for Global Security
The warnings from Gabbard highlight a shifting landscape in international security, where traditional and emerging powers are rapidly advancing their missile technologies. This development necessitates continuous monitoring and adaptive responses from the US and its allies to safeguard against potential attacks. The intelligence community's focus remains on mitigating risks from these nations while maintaining strategic deterrence.
