Trump denies US munitions shortage, threatens jail for weapons-data leakers

President Donald Trump pushed back on Thursday against reports that the United States is running short of critical weapons after six months of war with Iran, threatening on social media to seek long-term jail sentences for those leaking military information to journalists.

Trump's denial on Truth Social

«The U.S. has massive amounts of 'munitions,' especially of certain types,» Trump posted on Truth Social, adding that large quantities were being manufactured and shipped to the US. The White House position directly contradicts reporting from major news organizations including CBS News, the BBC's US partner, which cited two sources with direct knowledge saying Washington had used much of its global stockpile of long-range precision missiles during Operation Epic Fury — the military campaign against Iran — and in subsequent tit-for-tat strikes.

Weapons stockpile concerns

The Washington Post separately reported that Trump last week confronted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over a possible shortfall, also citing unnamed sources. The BBC has not independently confirmed that report.

Using publicly available data, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that by the end of July, the US had between 759 and 827 Patriot air-defense missiles remaining, down from about 2,330 before the Iran conflict. Other missile types that are difficult and slow to manufacture have also been heavily depleted.

Trump threatens leakers

«The 'leakers' of these treasonous statements are being hunted down,» Trump posted. «Long term jail sentences will be sought!» Defense Secretary Hegseth has already introduced strict controls limiting access journalists have to the Pentagon. Precise data on US missile inventories remains classified.