Renewed U.S.-Iran Conflict Tests Regional Missile Defense Systems and Stockpiles

The renewed conflict between the U.S.-led coalition, including Israel and Gulf states, and Iran has intensified missile and drone exchanges across the Middle East. Iran launched widespread retaliatory strikes targeting Israel, Gulf countries, and U.S. bases, while coalition forces employed integrated air defense systems like Israel's Iron Dome and U.S. interceptors. Despite high interception rates, some missiles and drones penetrated defenses, raising concerns over interceptor stockpiles and the effectiveness of Iran's air defenses, including the HQ-9B system. The conflict underscores challenges in sustaining missile defense amid escalating attacks.