Summary
The U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, presented a report that included Pakistan among countries with missile capabilities that could potentially threaten the U.S. in the future. The assessment suggests that Pakistan could develop long-range missiles, possibly intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), capable of reaching the U.S. However, experts are questioning this possibility based on Pakistan's current missile range capabilities.
Key Facts
- Tulsi Gabbard presented the U.S. 2026 Annual Threat Assessment to the Senate Intelligence Committee.
- The assessment highlights Pakistan, along with Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran, as nations developing advanced missile systems.
- The report suggests Pakistan could potentially develop ICBMs that might reach the U.S.
- Pakistan's longest current operational missile has a range of about 2,750 km, covering regions within India.
- Critics argue Pakistan's current capability does not support reaching U.S. territory, given the over 11,200 km required range.
- The report also mentions South Asia's enduring security challenges, particularly between India and Pakistan.
- The assessment notes previous de-escalation of nuclear tensions by President Trump.
- Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not formally responded to the report.
