Votel warns new Iran strikes may deplete interceptors before war ends

Retired Army General Joseph Votel argues that a new wave of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran will weaken the country’s capabilities but will not end the war. Speaking with NPR's Leila Fadel, Votel, who led U.S. Central Command from 2016 to 2019, said that many likely targets have already been hit and that Iran has demonstrated its ability to rebuild them.

Votel stated that fresh attacks can punish Tehran and degrade specific capabilities, but they have not yet altered Tehran’s calculation regarding the war’s direction. He noted that the Iranian government has appeared more hard-line and willing to execute bold counterattacks. In response, Votel emphasized that Washington must first define a clear objective and a specific end state for the conflict.

According to Votel, the two primary goals should be resolving the nuclear enrichment issue and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He argued that once these goals are set, military, economic, diplomatic, and information pressures must all align toward that single objective. He identified the financial front as the area showing the most visible progress, noting that a blockade and sanctions are increasing pressure on Tehran.

Votel cited reporting that Iran’s so-called ghost fleet has run out of oil. He acknowledged that this economic approach requires time but indicated there is definite movement in that direction. He also noted that U.S. aims have been difficult to read, with much of the strategy centering on reopening Hormuz to allow oil and commerce to move freely. He said this would help lower gas and diesel prices in the United States.

The general identified Iran’s nuclear program as the second major concern. He added that Iran uses proxies to create regional instability, including connections to the Houthis across the Arabian Peninsula, but he described Hormuz and enrichment as the principal worries. Votel stressed that bringing Iran to the negotiating table requires a clear statement of objectives, coordinated tools, and patience.

When asked about military readiness, Votel said American offensive power in the region is substantial and that the ability to strike is not in question. However, he identified missile defense as a potential constraint. He noted that heavy pressure has been placed on defensive interceptors protecting U.S. forces, regional partners, and critical infrastructure. In his assessment, offensive capability is sufficient, while defense may face a constraint.