August M
A new CIA analysis reportedly suggests Iran could withstand a US naval blockade for several more months, despite repeated claims from the White House that the country is nearing economic collapse.
Money.pl reported that intelligence findings cited by The Washington Post estimate Iran may continue functioning under current restrictions for another 90 to 120 days, and potentially longer.
Longer survival expected
According to The Washington Post, CIA assessments delivered to the White House concluded that Iran could absorb the impact of the blockade for at least three to four months before facing severe economic disruption.
US officials quoted by the newspaper reportedly said some analysts believe the estimate may even be too cautious.
The report suggested Iran could continue exporting oil through land routes, including rail transport and tanker shipments, helping soften the effects of sanctions and maritime restrictions.
Oil strategy adapts
Money.pl reported that Tehran has also introduced measures designed to preserve oil production and maintain exports despite growing pressure.
According to the report, Iran has been storing oil aboard tankers and reducing flow rates at some oil fields to protect long-term production capacity.
“Iran’s economic situation is not as dire as some people claim,” one source told The Washington Post.
Missile stockpile remains
The CIA assessment also reportedly challenged earlier public claims about the scale of damage to Iran’s missile arsenal.
According to the newspaper, US intelligence now believes Iran still possesses roughly 70 percent of its missiles and 75 percent of its mobile launchers.
That figure differs sharply from previous estimates suggesting Iran had lost around half of its missile capabilities.
White House narrative questioned
Money.pl noted that President Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had recently argued Iran was close to financial collapse and struggling to fund its armed forces.
The administration has claimed the blockade costs Tehran roughly $500 million per day.
However, one US official quoted by The Washington Post argued Iran’s leadership appears increasingly prepared to endure prolonged economic hardship and internal repression in order to outlast American political pressure.
The latest tensions follow the February 28 attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, after which Tehran restricted movement through the Strait of Hormuz and Washington responded by blocking Iranian ports.
Sources: Money.pl, The Washington Post.
