Iran Excavates Buried Missiles During 14-Day Truce as US Deploys Invasion Force

Gate News message, April 16 — Iran is reportedly using a 14-day temporary ceasefire to unearth hidden missile launchers buried during recent US and Israeli bombardments, according to satellite imagery. The underground bases, located in Tabriz and Khomeyn, were primary targets of Operation Epic Fury, where US and Israeli airstrikes strategically collapsed entrances to trap Tehran’s arsenal. However, satellite images now show massive excavators removing rubble and truck fleets clearing debris to unblock launch sites.

US intelligence warns that despite Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s claims that the Iranian missile program was “functionally destroyed,” approximately 50% of the launchers remain intact. Iran is reportedly preparing to deploy its Houthi proxies to disrupt the Bab al-Mandab Strait (the “Gate of Tears”), which handles roughly 10% of global trade. The blockade in the Strait of Hormuz was triggered after Iran refused to grant free passage—a non-negotiable condition of the 14-day truce. Meanwhile, the US has deployed 6,000 soldiers aboard the USS George H.W. Bush, 3,000 elite airborne troops, and 5,000 US Marines closing in on Iranian territory.

President Donald Trump has struck an optimistic tone on peace prospects, telling Fox News “I think it’s close to over,” and stating that a deal is “very possible” before King Charles’s state visit later this month. Vice President JD Vance is expected to tighten pressure in upcoming peace talks in Pakistan, with the White House demanding a total halt to all uranium enrichment. However, the sight of Iran excavating its secret missiles suggests the regime may be preparing for a potential final confrontation.