Trump threatens prison for those claiming US ammunition shortage

US President Donald Trump reacted sharply to media reports about dwindling ammunition and missile stockpiles. On his Truth Social platform, he insisted that the United States has a massive amount of ammunition, especially of certain types, but did not elaborate.

Trump also said his administration would try to secure long prison sentences for people who spread claims about an ammunition shortage. He stated that large quantities are being produced and shipped to the US as needed, and that defense companies are building the largest number of factories in the country's history.

The Washington Post had reported that Trump last Friday demanded answers from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about the ammunition shortage. CNN reported that shortages of long-range guided missiles and air-defense interceptors affected Trump's strategy in the conflict with Iran, with US forces having used nearly 80% of their THAAD interceptor stockpiles.

The Post also said the missile shortage forced Trump to cancel new attacks on Iran, despite his earlier threats of a very heavy strike.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed reports of Trump's conversation with Hegseth as fake news, stressing that it never happened. The Pentagon's chief press secretary also said reports of a clash between Trump and Hegseth and of weapons shortages were fabricated.

Exact information about US missile stockpiles remains classified. Since taking office, Hegseth has sought to impose strict control, including limiting what journalists can obtain from the Pentagon.

Using public data, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that by the end of July the US had between 759 and 827 Patriot missiles remaining, compared with 2,330 before the war with Iran. The center also estimated that the US had used roughly 60% of its THAAD missiles.