Pakistans ICBM Program Poses Threat to the U.S., Warns Tulsi Gabbard

Washington, March 20: Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. Director of Intelligence, issued a warning on Thursday that Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program could pose a future threat to the United States.

She stated that Pakistan’s missile capabilities could potentially develop into intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. Gabbard made these remarks while presenting the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment Report before the House Intelligence Committee.

Gabbard highlighted the rapid increase in global missile threats. According to intelligence agencies, the number of missiles worldwide could rise from the current 3,000 to over 16,000 by 2035.

She pointed out that Pakistan is among the countries developing new and advanced missile systems with conventional and nuclear capabilities, which could also place the U.S. within their range. This list includes Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran.

Additionally, she noted that North Korea already possesses ICBMs capable of reaching the U.S., while Pakistan may also advance in this direction in the future. However, she did not provide a specific timeline for this development.

Gabbard emphasized that the U.S. relies on its nuclear deterrence to ensure national security. She warned that China and Russia are developing systems that could bypass or penetrate U.S. missile defense systems.

The report indicated that global threats are no longer limited to missiles but are also associated with cyberattacks, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies. Gabbard stated that many countries are rapidly working on hypersonic weapons and new delivery systems, complicating the global security landscape.

It is noteworthy that Pakistan’s missile program has largely been influenced by its strategic competition with India. Both countries possess missile systems capable of delivering nuclear weapons.